Death

If you die before retiring with a deferred pension...

If you die while you are a Deferred member, certain benefits may be paid to your spouse or Civil Partner.

A spouse's or civil partner's pension will usually be paid, based on your deferred pension.

A lump sum may be payable, usually based on the contributions you have made during your membership

In all cases, you must check the specific details of your benefits with the Pensions Administration Team. The rules that apply to you may differ from other members because of the date you left the Scheme or your individual circumstances.

If you die after starting to take your pension...

If you die once your pension is in payment, certain benefits may be paid to your spouse or Civil Partner.

  • Five-year pension guarantee

If you die within five years of the date you retire a lump sum may be paid, subject to legal pension limits.

  • Spouse’s or civil partner’s pension

A spouse's or civil partner's pension will usually be paid, based on your deferred pension.

In all cases, you must check the specific details of your benefits with the Pensions Administration Team. The rules that apply to you may differ from other members because of the date you left the Scheme or your individual circumstances.

Expression of Wish form

The Trustee has the discretion to decide who should receive any lump sum which may be due if you die. You can inform the Trustee as to who you would like the lump sum paid to by completing an Expression of Wish form.

Your Expression of Wish Form will be taken into account by the Trustee in deciding who should receive the benefit, but it is not binding on the Trustee. This ensures that any lump sum paid out on death is free from inheritance tax.

Remember, as your personal circumstances change you should make sure you keep your Expression of Wish Form up-to-date.

Any lump sum payable on your death before age 75 can currently be paid tax-free as long as it (together with any other benefits which must be taken into account) does not exceed the Lifetime Allowance (see HM Revenue & Customs).

Any lump sum payment in excess of the Lifetime Allowance will be subject to tax. If you have pension benefits which are close to or in excess of the LTA, you may be able to choose for lump sum benefits payable on your death to be paid in a more tax-efficient manner. Please contact the Pensions Administration Team for more information about this option.