Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers to the most common questions
from scheme members.
Pensioner FAQs
Useful information for Pensioners
Why has my tax code changed?
We are instructed by HMRC to apply relevant tax codes. For further information and questions about your tax assessment please contact:-
Taxes Helpline
Please have your National Insurance number with you when you phone
Opening hours:
8.00 am to 8.00 pm, Monday to Friday
8.00 am to 4.00 pm Saturday
Telephone: 0300 200 3300
For customers who are deaf or hearing or speech impaired:
Telephone: 0300 200 3319 (Textphone)
HMRC Web Site
Where Is My Tax Office?
Your tax office for NEC pension purposes is LP Lothians.
District reference: 846/SZ55875
A main HMRC contact number now exists for the whole of the UK and will answer all tax related enquiries. HMRC used to have an individual phone number for each tax office in the UK. The closure of some regional tax offices has meant that to find an HMRC contact number for a local tax office is now impossible
For your information their contact details are as follows:-
Phone
For general enquiries:
0300 200 3300
Phone number from outside the UK
+44 135 535 9022
Opening Times
Monday to Saturday 08:00 – 22:00
Sunday 09:00 – 22:00
Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and Bank Holidays
Address
HM Revenue & Customs
BX9 1AS
United Kingdom
What Age Will A Child’s Pension Cease?
Child Pensions will cease at the end of the Pension Scheme year (30 June) in which the child reaches age 18yrs. The Pension may continue after age 18yrs up to age 23yrs provided that the child remains in full time education and is a dependant.
Evidence of attendance at University / College/ or other institution where they are receiving full time education will be required by the Trustees.
Deferred FAQs
Useful information for deferred members
When Can I Take My Pension Benefits?
The Normal Retirement Age (NRA) for this scheme is 65yrs however you may take your benefits at any time from age 55yrs.
Should you take your benefits before NRA your pension will be reduced to allow for its early payment. The reduction factors are determined by the Actuary having had regard to the prevailing conditions.
Under the Scheme Rules, pensions cannot start later than age 75. This means your pension must begin no later than your 75th birthday.
What happens to my benefits when I die?
Death whilst a Deferred Member
Planning for what happens to your pension benefits in the event of your death is not something many of us like to think about. However, you should consider the benefits payable so that your wishes are understood by the Trustees.
If you die while you are a deferred member of the Fund, the benefits that may be payable can include:
- A spouse’s or civil partner’s pension;
- A refund of contributions as a lump sum; and
- In some instances, children’s pensions.
Points to note about benefits that may be payable on the death of a member:
- If you are married or in a civil partnership at the time of your death, your spouse or civil partner will usually be entitled to 50% of your pension entitlement.
- If your spouse or civil partner is more than 15 years younger than you, any pension payable to your spouse or civil partner may be reduced at the discretion of the Trustees.
- Dependant children will be considered for a pension on your death.
- If you are not married or in a civil partnership but have a partner, or someone who is financially dependent on you, they may still be able to obtain a dependant’s pension. However, this is not payable automatically and will depend on the particular circumstances and is subject to Trustees discretion. The Trustee will also refer to the information provided on the completed Nomination form.
- A lump sum may also be payable to your dependants at the discretion of the Trustee, who will consider the information on your Nomination form.
Get In Touch
We’re here to help. Contact the NEC Staff Pension Scheme trustees with any questions about policies, procedures or your benefits.