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Payment of pensions after opting out of the NHS Pension Scheme

Following the article published in July, we have received a number of queries from employers and we felt that further clarification was necessary.

Checking the payable date

Opted out less than 5 years ago

Member has opted out less than 5 years ago and they are over normal pension age at their last day of non-pensionable membership.

If the member opted out of the Scheme but remained in NHS employment until their pension benefits become payable, completion of form AW8 is required.

We will request confirmation of the member’s last day of non-pensionable employment.

The payable date is the day after the non- pensionable employment ceases.

A 24 hour break and suspension rules apply (1995 section)

Opted out more than 5 years ago

If the member opted out of the Scheme but remained in NHS employment until their pension benefits become payable, completion of form AW8 is required. However there are exceptions to this. Where the member is claiming a deferred period only then an AW8P would be required.

Membership becomes decoupled (separate) and the payable date is the normal pension age.

Members under these circumstances do not need a 24 hour break.