When you start working for the NHS you will automatically be included in the NHS Pension Scheme. The scheme is voluntary, so you can choose to opt-out if you wish.
The amount you pay into your pension depends on how much you earn. Current contribution rates are between 5% and 14.5%.
Pension contributions are taken from your pay before tax so you receive tax relief on any amount you pay. Your employer contributes 14.38%.
The scheme provides a range of benefits. These include:
- Normal age retirement pension
- Voluntary early retirement pension
- Redundancy pension
- Ill health retirement pension
- Partner/survivor pension
- Children’s pension
- Lump sum payable on death in service
You can increase the amount of benefits you receive at retirement by paying extra contributions. This can be done either by a lump sum or regular extra contributions.
More information is available on this website.