Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)

Opting in / re-joining the scheme

Joining or re-joining

If you have opted out of the scheme, you can re-join if you still meet the eligibility criteria by completing the form below.

You can also use this form to join the scheme if you are a temporary or casual worker, and you haven't automatically been enrolled.

Opt into / Re-join the LGPS form

Joining the main scheme after being part of the 50/50 scheme

If you are currently in the 50/50 scheme and you want to join the main scheme, please complete the following form:

Re-join the LGPS main scheme form

Please note: You will be contracted-out of the State Second Pension (S2P) Scheme whilst you are a member of the LGPS. If you already have a fixed or enhanced protection certificate, you may lose this protection when you join the LGPS.

Opting out

You can opt out of the scheme by completing the following form:

LGPS Opt out form

You cannot sign and date the form until your first day of membership, at the earliest.

If you opt out within the first three months of being enrolled, your contributions will be refunded.

If you opt out after three months, you will not be refunded. You will be entitled to pension benefits according to the scheme.

Regular re-enrolment

If you are eligible to join the scheme, by law, the Council must regularly re-enrol you.

You will automatically be re-enrolled if you:

• have either opted out of the scheme, or you pay reduced contributions (the 50/50 scheme)
• are aged at least 22
• are under the State Pension Age, and
• earn more than £8,105 a year.

You will automatically be re-enrolled on the next 're-enrolment date', which is between 1 January 2022 to 1 July 2022.

You will be contacted when this is due to happen.

You can opt out, or re-join the 50/50 scheme, if it's still not right for you.