Update: Public Sector Pension Schemes – Cash Equivalent Transfer Values

Posted October 4th, 2010

Whilst the NHS call centre and website are saying it could be up to next April before the new cash equivalent transfer values (CETVs) / Cash Equivalent Of Benefit calculations (CTVs) commence again, I understand that the new CPI factors are now starting to become available for the Public Sector Schemes.

The Fire Service and NHS pension scheme have confirmed receipt and they will be testing their systems over the next two weeks. The other schemes – Local Government Pension Scheme, Police Pension Scheme, Armed Forces- are expected over the coming weeks.

It is hoped that the end of this embargo (see here) will be soon and we can return to normal with requesting public sector pension transfer values.

If this is something that is currently affecting you, please feel free to contact us.

Pension & Divorce Blog – Charging for pension valuations

Posted August 16th, 2010

I am often asked who can request pension valuations and whether there should be a charge.

It should be noted that the valuation will only be provided to the scheme member and not their spouse. The pension scheme will usually allow for one free Cash Equivalent Transfer Values (CETV) quotation to be provided each year.

However, there are occasions when a charge will be applied and I have set out some examples below:

  •  When a further valuation is requested within the one year time frame.
  • Where the pension is in payment. Because a pension in payment cannot be transferred a CETV is irrelevant. The correct basis is a cash equivalent of benefit (CEB) and there will be a cost.
  • When the valuation is needed more quickly than the scheme’s normal turnaround. For example, the NHS pension scheme usually works to a 3 month turnaround time, although, they will provide it in less than 6 weeks for a charge of £300 plus VAT.
  • When the member is within 12 months of normal retirement date.
  • Servicing members of the Armed Forces Scheme who already qualify for immediate benefits as soon as they retire. For those members with reckonable service of more than 16 years for officers and 22 years for other ranks the scheme levies a charge of £150 plus VAT. Where the service is less than 16 years and 22 years respectively there is no charge.

The National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF) has set out guidance for pension scheme trustees on charges and you can find further information here. NAPF gives a range of charges for you to judge how much you are being charged against. Note that it is only guidance and that some schemes will charge more.

If you would like further information on CETVs, valuations and charges, please contact us on 0800 092 1229 or email advice@thedivorceifa.co.uk

Requesting a CETV for an NHS Pension on divorce – Help with form filling

Posted July 28th, 2010

I am often asked what forms are needed to enable a cash equivalent transfer value (CETV) to be calculated by the NHS Pensions Agency.

To enable the NHS Pension Agency to calculate the CETV they require pay and membership details from you and your employer. NHS Pensions rely on NHS employers to provide details of pensionable pay and membership of the NHS Scheme.

The forms required depend upon whether you are a contributing member or not.

Contributing member (or leaver within the last 12 months)

Form PD2 needs completing by your employer – a separate one is required for each NHS employment. Form PD1 needs completing by you.

Once both are completed, you need to send it to NHS Pensions, Hesketh House, 200-220 Broadway, Fleetwood, Lancashire, FY7 8LG.

Non contributing member

Form PD1 only needs to be completed and returned to the above address.

Timescales

They aim to provide the CETV within 6 weeks. Note that occupational schemes have 3 months to provide the CETV. You can pay extra to receive the CETV more quickly.

To avoid delays it is important that the forms are completed accurately. I am happy to provide further information on how the NHS deals with pensions on divorce.

If you require any further assistance, please contact us on 0800 092 1229 or email advice@thedivorceifa.co.uk