The following changes have been made to the Local Government Pension Scheme from 15 December 2007.
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Scheme members who are in a civil partnership may buy back their pre 5/4/1988 membership so that it may count towards a Survivor's Pension. Elections must be made within 6 months of entering a civil partnership or being notified of the right to buy back, whichever date is the later.
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Additional voluntary contributions can no longer be made by lump sum. Instead, they must be made by deduction through payroll.
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The rule that limits total membership to 40 years in instances of ill health retirement has been removed.
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A lump sum death grant can only be paid if the member dies before age 75.
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In cases of very serious ill health, the full annual pension may now be converted to a lump sum and not just the amount of pension in excess of the guaranteed minimum pension.
Further information regarding the changes can be obtained by contacting the Pensions Section at Falkirk Council.