Thinking of opting out?

Opting out of the LGPS is an important decision that could affect your future pension benefits.

! Before opting out, consider the LGPS 50/50 section.

! You will lose your employer's contributions.

! You may lose valuable protection for yourself and your family.

! You will not build up any new pension benefits while opted out.

If you wish to opt out of the LGPS, you must submit an opt-out form to your employer.

How do the options compare?

Feature Main Section 50/50 Section Opt Out
Member contributions 100% 50% 0%
Pension build-up 1/49 1/98 ✗
Death in service lump sum ✓ Full ✓ Full ✗
Ill-health pension ✓ ✓ ✗
Employer contributions ✓ ✓ ✗
LGPS membership ✓ ✓ ✗

Important: If you opt out of the LGPS, your employer is normally required to automatically re-enrol you into the scheme every 3 years if you meet the automatic enrolment criteria. Your pension contributions will start again unless you choose to opt out once more.

What should I consider before opting out?

If you are experiencing temporary financial pressure, the LGPS 50/50 section may be a suitable alternative to opting out. It allows you to pay lower contributions while remaining a member of the scheme.

Read more about the 50/50 option →