If you’re not already a member and you want to join, you should speak to your employer.
If you’re not already a member and you subsequently meet the automatic-enrolment criteria, you’ll join the scheme from the first pay period in which you become eligible.
Alternatively, if you’ve opted out of the LGPS in the past, you may be re-enrolled in the scheme again in the future.
Most people are automatically enrolled if they’re eligible
If you’ve got a short-term contract (less than three months), you’ll need to ask to join.
Check your payslip. If pension contributions are being deducted, you’re already in the scheme. Still not sure? Ask your payroll team or HR team.
You can still join the LGPS even if you're paying into a personal or stakeholder pension elsewhere. Just make sure you understand how each scheme works, especially if you’re thinking of transferring benefits.
How much you pay depends on how much you earn. Contribution rates range from 5.5% to 11.2% of your pensionable pay. If you work part-time or term-time, your contribution is based on your actual earnings, not a full-time salary. The contribution will be defined by your employer and reviewed annually.
Councillors can join the LGPS. Although benefits are built up the same as for active members, there are a few differences.