Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)

Thinking of joining?

• The LGPS is a valuable part of the pay and reward package for employees of local government, other participating employers and some councillors. 
  
  
• It is heavily subsidised by your employer and is often viewed as one of the most valuable financial rewards of the job.
  
  
• Membership is normally automatic for permanent employees under age 75. 
  
  

Check your payslip to see if you are paying in and if not, contact your employer to see if you can join. 

The main benefits of the LGPS are:

• A secure pension, payable for life.
• Flexible lump sum options (provided to you at your retirement).
• Low cost - most people enjoy tax-efficient savings and lower National Insurance contributions while contributing to the LGPS. Members contribute between 5.5% and 7.5% of their pay.
• Employer contribution - your employer pays whatever amount is necessary to ensure that your benefits are properly funded.
• Early retirement - you can choose to retire from age 60 and receive your benefits immediately, although they may be reduced for early payment. It’s also possible to retire from age 55 and receive your benefits immediately, either with your employer's consent or if you are made redundant or retired on the grounds of efficiency.
• Death cover - in the event of your death while contributing, your family have financial security as a pension would be payable to your surviving spouse / civil partner, eligible children and, if you were a contributing member on or after 1 April 2008, for a nominated cohabiting partner. If you ever become seriously ill, you could receive immediate ill-health benefits.
• Options to pay extra  - you can top-up your pension by paying additional contributions. These additional contributions also attract tax relief.

Nothing on these pages or the LGPS UK National website can override the provisions of the Local Government Pension Scheme Regulations. Nothing on either site should be construed as being more than a guide. Your employer together with us, as Administering Authority of the Buckinghamshire County Council Pension Fund, will use the scheme regulations to reach any decision should a dispute arise.