We understand that GP pensions are an important part of securing your financial future so that you can enjoy the next stage of your life after work. An effective pension plan can prolong your financial freedom throughout your retirement, but the NHS Pension rules are often changing and evolving, which can cast uncertainty on your pension as a GP.
GP pensions explained: the NHS Pension Scheme
The NHS Pension Scheme is a voluntary pension scheme available to GPs where benefits are paid in addition to the basic state pension. It is the main pillar of retirement planning and pensions for GPs as it provides medical professionals with a lifelong, inflation-linked income. It also has additional benefits like life cover and financial support for dependents.
There are three different types of NHS Scheme that apply to pensions for GPs. They are the 1995 and 2008 Sections which pay a final salary pension, and the 2015 Section, which pays an income based on your career average earnings, which is less generous than the final salary scheme.
How much do I contribute to my GP pension?
GP pensions require regular contributions and have additional voluntary contributions that you can choose to make also. Whether you’re a full-time or part-time GP, you will pay a certain percentage of your gross salary into your pension each month, which you receive pension tax relief on. You’ll also have a contribution made by your employer to top it up.
GP pension contributions are based on your previous years’ pensionable earnings and are a percentage of gross salary. These rates are subject to change, so it’s worth checking the current rates when making retirement strategy decisions.
When are GP pensions collectable?
All NHS and GP pensions are received at what is known as ‘normal pension age’ or NPA. This is the age at which you can retire from working for the NHS and have your pension paid in full, so you don’t have any reductions from retiring early.
You can retire early and claim your pension when you reach the minimum pension age. However, by doing so, your benefits will be reduced to reflect your pension being paid out for longer. There are, however, other ways of boosting your retirement funds outside of the standard NHS GP pensions, including savings, investments and property, which all tie into your wider retirement strategy. There are benefits and drawbacks to each of these choices, so make sure you plan your retirement strategy outside of GP pensions with a specialist adviser from Chase de Vere Medical.
Deciding on my GP Pension and retirement strategy
The NHS pension scheme, despite recent changes, still offers excellent value for money when it comes to GP pensions. When deciding what is best for you and how to maximise your retirement funds, it is important to seek specialist advice. Independent advice will help you to consider the most favourable strategy for retirement from your career path.
To discuss more about GP pensions, and the best steps for you, please get in touch to arrange a free consultation with one of our specialist independent financial advisers today.
Disclaimer
The information provided herein is based on current tax laws and regulations, which are subject to change.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) does not regulate tax advice.
Please be aware that the value of investments can fall as well as rise, so you could get back less than you invest. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.
The above is not individual financial advice.
Content correct at time of writing.