You can leave the LGPS at any time by giving your employer notice in writing. An election to opt-out becomes effective from the end of the payment period during which you gave notification, unless your notification specifies a date later than the notification was made. You are recommended to obtain advice before opt-out of the LGPS.

If you opt-out within three months of joining you will be treated as not having been a member of the LGPS during that period, but will be treated as having opted-out of the LGPS. The contributions that you have paid will be refunded to you.

If you opt-out after three months the same options are available to you as detailed in the section on Leaving Your Present Job Before Retirement.

Can I re-join the LGPS at a later date?

If you opt-out once, you can re-join the LGPS at any time.

If you opt-out of the LGPS more than once, unless you elect to re-join the Scheme within three months of commencing work with a new employer, you will only be allowed to re-join at the discretion of your employer.

Points to note

• You may wish to obtain independent financial advice before you make a decision to opt-out of the LGPS.