New to the Northern Ireland Civil Service?

What is a pension?

Your pension allows you to save for your future and provides you with an income when you retire. Your pension is a valuable part of your pay and reward package. On top of the pay that you receive your employer will pay a contribution towards your pension.

If you are employed on a permanent basis you will be automatically enrolled in the nuvos scheme. If you wish to open a partnership pension account instead, you have three months in which to return your PensionChoices form which is included in your New Entrant Starter Pack. You should still complete this form if you choose to stay in nuvos. The form contains valuable information that we need, to make sure you receive the full range of benefits available.

If you are employed on a casual basis you are eligible to join the nuvos scheme or open a partnership pension account. To join either arrangement you must fill in the PensionChoices form which is included in your New Entrant Starter Pack.

If you are a rejoiner you may be eligible to rejoin the scheme you were in previously depending on your circumstances. You will be informed of eligibility when you commence employment.

Both permanent and casual members have the choice of opening a stakeholder pension on its own or in addition to their nuvos/partnership arrangement.

You should have received a New Entrant Starter Pack from HR Connect, this contains a PensionChoices form and a booklet which will enable you to make a decision. If you have not received this pack, contact HR Connect immediately.

Members can change arrangement in the future, we will allow you one switch in each direction. You should check your arrangement each year to satisfy yourself that you are on target for the sort of pension you want.

If you want to transfer your service from another scheme ask your previous employer for a transfer quote. We will then provide you with an estimate of the reckonable service this will buy. If you would like more information read the following leaflet:

You also have the opportunity to opt out of the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme (Northern Ireland) [PCSPS(NI)]. If you choose to opt out you will just receive State benefits, including the State Second Pension (S2P). You should think very carefully before choosing this option as you will be missing out on a range of valuable benefits.

If you require any further information concerning the above please contact the Member Administration Section. You can find their number in the contact us section.