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Opting out

If you're thinking of opting out you might want to first consider an alternative option which is to elect to move to the 50:50 Section of the scheme.

The 50:50 Section allows you to pay half your normal contributions in return for half your normal pension build up. To find out more about this option, visit our 50:50 section page.

If having considered the 50:50 option you still decide the LGPS is not for you, you can leave the LGPS at any time on or after your first day of eligible employment by giving your employer notice in writing. You might, however, want to take independent financial advice before making the final decision to opt out.

We also recommend that you read our 'Things to consider before opting out' guide before opting out.

If you'd still like to opt out, please complete an Opt out form and hand it in to your HR or Payroll department.

If you opt out of the LGPS before completing 3 months membership

You'll be treated as never having been a member and your employer will refund to you, through your pay, any contributions you've paid during that time.

If you opt out of the LGPS with 3 or more months membership and before completing the 2 years vesting period

You can take a refund of your contributions (less any statutory deductions) or transfer out your pension to another scheme. If you were in the scheme before 1 April 2014 and opt out on or after that date with 3 or more months membership and before completing the 2 years vesting period you'll also have the option of having deferred benefits in the scheme instead of taking a refund of your contributions (less any statutory deductions).

If you opt out of the LGPS after meeting the 2 years vesting period

You'll have deferred benefits in the scheme and will generally have the same options as anyone leaving their job before retirement (except you cannot draw your deferred benefits).

What happens if I’ve opted out?

If you opt out, provided you're otherwise eligible to join the Scheme, you can opt back in at any time before age 75.

You'll automatically be re-enrolled into the Scheme within 3 years of opting out. You'll be told when this happens and would still have the right to again opt out of the LGPS. 

Visit our 'Glossary' for more information about auto-enrolment.

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