Joining, leaving and benefits

CASUAL EMPLOYEES

Are you employed on a casual basis? Casual employment means working as and when you are required. Do you know anything about the Local Government Pension Scheme? We hope this information will answer some of your questions.

Can I join the Local Government Pension Scheme?

Yes, it is possible to join the Scheme. If you are employed on a casual basis you are not automatically a member and must apply to your employer to join. This can be done by asking your employer to send you a Pension Starter Pack.

But is it worth my while?

Well, you are only a member on the days you are actually working. So, if you worked Monday in one week, Wednesday in the next week and Friday the next, this would only count as 3 days membership, NOT 3 weeks.

How long would I have to contribute before I would be guaranteed a pension for life?

To qualify for a pension and lump sum, you would need to build up at least 3 months membership. As each day counts individually, it may take you a long time to accumulate 3 months (91 days) membership. Based on the above this would be almost 2 years.

Are there any other benefits?

Yes. There are "death in service" benefits available. This would be a tax-free lump sum equal to twice your actual annual salary paid to your estate or your nominated beneficiary or beneficiaries. It is important to complete a nomination form if you wish your beneficiary or beneficiaries to receive the tax-free lump sum.

However, these benefits will only be paid if you die on a day that you are working. You are NOT counted as a scheme member on a day that you are not working.

You will need to consider very carefully whether, in your circumstances, it is appropriate for you to join the scheme.

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