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Pension Schemes Act 1993

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Pension Schemes Act 1993, Cross Heading: Guaranteed minimum pensions is up to date with all changes known to be in force on or before 18 November 2024. There are changes that may be brought into force at a future date. Changes that have been made appear in the content and are referenced with annotations. Help about Changes to Legislation

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Whole provisions yet to be inserted into this Act (including any effects on those provisions):

[F4Guaranteed minimum pensions]E+W+S

Textual Amendments

[F512EFormer salary related contracted-out schemes to comply with GMP requirementsE+W+S

(1)A scheme that was a salary related contracted-out scheme is to be treated as including whatever provision it needs to contain to comply with the GMP requirements.

(2)A scheme complies with the GMP requirements if, in relation to any earner's service before the principal appointed day, it complies in all respects with sections 13 to 24E.

(3)Where—

(a)a scheme is permitted by any of those sections to include provision subject to certain requirements, and

(b)the scheme includes the provision but not the requirements,

the scheme is to be treated by subsection (1) as including the requirements.

(4)This section overrides any provision of a scheme to the extent that the provision of the scheme conflicts with it.]

Textual Amendments

13 Minimum pensions for earners.E+W+S

(1)Subject to the provisions of this Part, the scheme must—

(a)provide for the earner to be entitled to a pension under the scheme if he attains pensionable age; and

(b)contain a rule to the effect that the weekly rate of the pension will be not less than his guaranteed minimum (if any) under sections 14 to 16.

[F6(1A)But a scheme may be amended so as to omit provision of the kind specified in subsection (1)(a) and (b) if the conditions specified in section 24B are satisfied.]

(2)In the case of an earner who [F7was a married woman or widow who was liable] to pay primary Class 1 contributions at a reduced rate by virtue of section 19(4) of the M1Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 [F8at a time during a relevant year when she was in contracted-out employment by reference to the scheme], subject to the provisions of this Part, the scheme must—

(a)provide for her to be entitled to a pension under the scheme if she attains pensionable ageF9...; and

(b)satisfy such other conditions as may be prescribed.

[F10“Relevant year” has the meaning given by section 14(8).]

(3)Subject to subsection (4), the scheme must provide for the pension to commence on the date on which the earner attains pensionable age and to continue for his life.

(4)Subject to subsection (5), the scheme may provide for the commencement of the earner’s guaranteed minimum pension to be postponed for any period for which he continues in employment after attaining pensionable age.

(5)The scheme must provide for the earner’s consent to be required—

(a)for any such postponement by virtue of employment to which the scheme does not relate; and

(b)for any such postponement after the expiration of five years from the date on which he attains pensionable age.

(6)Equivalent pension benefits for the purposes of the former legislation are not to be regarded as constituting any part of the earner’s guaranteed minimum pension.

(7)The benefits referred to in subsection (6) are any to which the earner may be immediately or prospectively entitled in respect of a period of employment which—

(a)was for him non-participating employment under that legislation; and

(b)was not on its termination the subject of any payment in lieu of contributions;

but subsection (6) excludes only so much of those benefits as had to be provided in order that the employment should for that period be treated as non-participating.

(8)In this section “the former legislation” means Part III of the M2National Insurance Act 1965 and the previous corresponding enactments.

Textual Amendments

F6S. 13(1A) inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(1), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

F9Words in s. 13(2)(a) repealed (6.4.1997) by Pensions Act 1995 (c. 26), s. 180(1), Sch. 5 para. 26, Sch. 7 Pt. III; S.I. 1997/664, art. 2(3), Sch. Pt. 2

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

Marginal Citations

14 Earner’s guaranteed minimum.E+W+S

[F11(1)An earner has a guaranteed minimum in relation to the pension provided by a scheme that was a salary related contracted-out scheme if in any tax week in a relevant year—

(a)earnings were paid to or for the earner's benefit in respect of employment which was contracted-out by reference to the scheme; and

(b)those earnings were in excess of the lower earnings limit for that tax week (or the prescribed equivalent if the earner was paid otherwise than weekly).]

(2)Subject to section 15(1), the guaranteed minimum shall be the weekly equivalent of an amount equal to the appropriate percentage of the total of the earner’s earnings factors for the relevant years, so far as derived from [F12excess earnings mentioned in subsection (1)(b)] upon which primary Class 1 contributions have been paid or treated as paid.

[F13(2A)Where any liability of a scheme in respect of an earner’s guaranteed minimum pension ceases by virtue of a civil recovery order, his guaranteed minimum in relation to the scheme is extinguished or reduced accordingly.]

F14(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4)Where the amount of a person’s earnings for any period is relevant for any purpose of subsection (1) or (2) and the [F15Inland Revenue are] satisfied that records of those earnings have not been maintained or retained or are otherwise unobtainable, [F16they] may for that purpose—

(a)compute, in such manner as [F16they] [F17think] fit, an amount which shall be regarded as the amount of those earnings; or

(b)take their amount to be such sum as [F16he] [F16they] may specify in the particular case.

(5)In subsection (2) the “appropriate percentage” means—

(a)in respect of the earner’s earnings factors for any tax year not later than the tax year 1987-88—

(i)if the earner was not more than 20 years under pensionable age on 6th April 1978, 1.25 per cent.;

(ii)in any other case 25/N per cent.;

(b)in respect of the earner’s earnings factors for the tax year 1988-89 and for subsequent tax years—

(i)if the earner was not more than 20 years under pensionable age on 6th April 1978, 1 per cent.;

(ii)in any other case 20/N per cent.;

where N is the number of years in the earner’s working life (assuming he will attain pensionable age) which fall after 5th April 1978.

(6)Regulations may prescribe rules as to the circumstances in which earnings factors are derived from earnings for the purposes of subsection (2).

(7)For the purposes of subsection (2) the weekly equivalent of the amount there mentioned shall be calculated by dividing that amount by 52.

(8)In this section “relevant year” means any tax year in the earner’s working life (not being earlier than the tax year 1978-79 [F18or later than the tax year ending immediately before the principal appointed day]).

Textual Amendments

F14S. 14(3) repealed (6.4.1997) by Pensions Act 1995 (c. 26), s. 180(1), Sch. 5 para. 27(a), Sch. 7 Pt. III; S.I. 1997/664, art. 2(3), Sch. Pt. 2

F15Words in s. 14(4) substituted (25.2.1999 for specified purposes, 1.4.1999 in so far as not already in force) by Social Security Contributions (Transfer of Functions, etc.) Act 1999 (c. 2), s. 28(2)(a), Sch. 1 para. 38(a); S.I. 1999/527, art. 2(b), Sch. 2 (with arts. 3-6)

F16Word in s. 14(4) substituted (25.2.1999 for specified purposes, 1.4.1999 in so far as not already in force) by Social Security Contributions (Transfer of Functions, etc.) Act 1999 (c. 2), s. 28(2)(a), Sch. 1 para. 38(b); S.I. 1999/527, art. 2(b), Sch. 2 (with arts. 3-6)

F17Word in s. 14(4)(a) substituted (25.2.1999 for specified purposes, 1.4.1999 in so far as not already in force) by Social Security Contributions (Transfer of Functions, etc.) Act 1999 (c. 2), s. 28(2)(a), Sch. 1 para. 38(c); S.I. 1999/527, art. 2(b), Sch. 2 (with arts. 3-6)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

15 Increase of guaranteed minimum where commencement of guaranteed minimum pension postponed.E+W+S

(1)Where in accordance with section 13(4) the commencement of an earner’s guaranteed minimum pension is postponed for any period and there are at least seven complete weeks in that period, his guaranteed minimum in relation to the scheme shall, for each complete week in that period, be increased by one-seventh per cent.—

(a)of the amount of that minimum apart from this subsection; or

(b)if for that week (or a period which includes that week) a pension is paid to him under the scheme at a weekly rate less than that minimum, of the difference between that pension and that minimum.

(2)In subsection (1) “week” means any period of seven consecutive days.

(3)Where an earner’s guaranteed minimum is increased under subsection (1), the increase of that part of it which is attributable to earnings factors for the tax year 1987-88 and earlier tax years shall be calculated separately from the increase of the rest.

(4)Where one or more orders have come into force under section 109 during the period for which the commencement of a guaranteed minimum pension is postponed, the amount of the guaranteed minimum for any week in that period shall be determined as if the order or orders had come into force before the beginning of the period.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8S. 15(1): sums amended (coming into force in accordance with arts. 1(4)(5), 7 of the amending S.I.) by The Social Security Benefits Up-rating Order 2023 (S.I. 2023/316), arts. 1(3)(c), 5

C9S. 15(1): sums amended (coming into force in accordance with arts. 1(4)(5), 7 of the amending S.I.) by The Social Security Benefits Up-rating Order 2024 (S.I. 2024/242), arts. 1(3)(c), 5

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

[F1915A Reduction of guaranteed minimum in consequence of pension debit.E+W+S

(1)Where—

(a)an earner has a guaranteed minimum in relation to the pension provided by a scheme, and

(b)his right to the pension becomes subject to a pension debit,

his guaranteed minimum in relation to the scheme is, subject to subsection (2), reduced by the appropriate percentage.

(2)Where the earner is in pensionable service under the scheme on the day on which the order or provision on which the pension debit depends takes effect, his guaranteed minimum in relation to the scheme is reduced by an amount equal to the appropriate percentage of the corresponding qualifying benefit.

(3)For the purposes of subsection (2), the corresponding qualifying benefit is the guaranteed minimum taken for the purpose of calculating the cash equivalent by reference to which the amount of the pension debit is determined.

(4)For the purposes of this section the appropriate percentage is—

(a)if the order or provision on which the pension debit depends specifies the percentage value to be transferred, that percentage;

(b)if the order or provision on which the pension debit depends specifies an amount to be transferred, the percentage which the appropriate amount for the purposes of subsection (1) of section 29 of the Welfare Reform and Pensions Act 1999 (lesser of specified amount and cash equivalent of transferor’s benefits) represents of the amount mentioned in subsection (3)(b) of that section (cash equivalent of transferor’s benefits).]

Textual Amendments

F19S. 15A inserted (11.11.1999 for specified purposes, 1.12.2000 in so far as not already in force) by Welfare Reform and Pensions Act 1999 (c. 30), ss. 32(3), 89(5)(a); S.I. 2000/1047, art. 2(2)(d), Sch. Pt. 4

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C10S. 15A applied (with effect in accordance with art. 1(2) of the amending S.S.I.) by SI 1992/129 Sch. 2 rule N6 (as inserted by The Firemens Pension Scheme (Pension Sharing on Divorce) (Scotland) Order 2001 (S.S.I. 2001/310), arts. 1(2), 3)

C11S. 15A applied (with effect in accordance with reg. 1(2) of the amending S.S.I.) by the National Health Service Superannuation Scheme (Scotland) Regulations 1995 (S.I. 1995/365), reg. W6 (as inserted by S.S.I. 2001/465, reg. 1(2), sch. 1 para. 3)

16 Revaluation of earnings factors for purposes of s. 14: early leavers etc.E+W+S

(1)Subject to subsection (2), for the purpose of section 14(2) the earner’s earnings factor for any relevant year (so far as derived as mentioned in that section) shall be taken to be that factor as increased by the same percentage as that prescribed for the increase of that factor by the last order under section 21 of the M3Social Security Pensions Act 1975 or section 148 of the M4Social Security Administration Act 1992 to come into force before the end of the final relevant year.

[F20(2)The scheme may provide that in a case where—

(a)an earner was, before the second abolition date, in contracted-out employment by reference to a scheme, and

(b)the earner ceases to be in pensionable service under the scheme before the final relevant year,

the earnings factors for that person shall be determined for the purposes of section 14(2) by reference to the last such order to come into force before the end of the tax year in which the earner ceases to be in pensionable service under the scheme (“the last service tax year”).]

(3)Where a scheme provides as mentioned in subsection (2) the scheme shall provide for the weekly equivalent mentioned in section 14(2) to be increased by at least [F21the prescribed percentage for each relevant year after the last service tax year; and the provisions included by virtue of this subsection may also conform with such additional requirements as may be prescribed].

(4)Except in such cases or classes of case as may be prescribed, the provision made by virtue of subsections (2) and (3) must be the same for all members of the scheme.

(5)In this section—

  • [F22“relevant year” means any tax year in the earner’s working life,]

  • [F23“final relevant year” means the last tax year in the earner’s working life].

Textual Amendments

F21Words in s. 16(3) substituted (6.4.1996 for specified purposes, 6.4.1997 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 1995 (c. 26), s. 180(1), Sch. 5 para. 28(a); S.I. 1996/778, art. 2(5)(a), Sch. Pt. 5; S.I. 1997/664, art. 2(3), Sch. Pt. 2 (with art. 3)

F22Words in s. 16(5) substituted (11.11.1999 for specified purposes, 25.4.2000 in so far as not already in force) by Welfare Reform and Pensions Act 1999 (c. 30), s. 89(5)(a), Sch. 2 para. 4; S.I. 2000/1047, art. 2(2)(b), Sch. Pt. 2

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

Marginal Citations

17 Minimum pensions for widows and widowers.E+W

(1)Subject to the provisions of this Part, the scheme must provide that if the earner dies leaving a [F24widow, widower or surviving civil partner] (whether before or after attaining pensionable age), the [F24widow, widower or surviving civil partner] will be entitled to a guaranteed minimum pension under the scheme.

[F25(1A)But a scheme may be amended so as to omit provision of the kind specified in subsection (1) if the conditions specified in section 24B are satisfied.]

(2)The scheme must contain a rule to the effect that—

(a)if the earner is a man [F26, or a woman in a relevant gender change case,] who has a guaranteed minimum under section 14, the weekly rate of the widow’s pension will be not less than the widow’s guaranteed minimum;

(b)if the earner is a woman who has a guaranteed minimum under that section, the weekly rate of the widower’s pension will be not less than the widower’s guaranteed minimum;

[F27(c)if the earner is a person who has a guaranteed minimum under that section, the weekly rate of the surviving civil partner’s pension will not be less than the surviving civil partner’s guaranteed minimum;]

[F28(d)if the earner is a man who has a guaranteed minimum under that section, the weekly rate of the widower's pension will not be less than the surviving same sex spouse's guaranteed minimum;

(e)if the earner is a woman (other than in a relevant gender change case) who has a guaranteed minimum under that section, the weekly rate of the widow's pension will not be less than the surviving same sex spouse's guaranteed minimum.]

(3)The widow’s guaranteed minimum shall be half that of the earner.

(4)The widower’s [F29or surviving civil partner's] [F30or surviving same sex spouse's] guaranteed minimum shall be one-half of that part of the earner’s guaranteed minimum which is attributable to earnings factors for the tax year 1988-89 and subsequent tax years.

[F31(4A)[F32Subject to subsection (4B)] the scheme must provide for the [F33widow's, widower’s or surviving civil partner's] pension to be payable to the [F34widow, widower or surviving civil partner]—

(a)for any period for which a Category B retirement pension is payable to the [F34widow, widower or surviving civil partner] by virtue of the earner’s contributions or would be so payable but for section 43(1) of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 (persons entitled to more than one retirement pension);

[F35(aa)for life, in a case where—

(i)the widow, widower or surviving civil partner attained state pension age on or after the second abolition date, and

(ii)the earner died on or after the date on which the widow, widower or surviving civil partner attained state pension age;

(ab)for any period after the widow, widower or surviving civil partner has attained state pension age, in a case where—

(i)the earner died before the widow, widower or surviving civil partner attained state pension age,

(ii)the widow, widower or surviving civil partner did not marry or form a civil partnership after the death and before attaining state pension age, and

(iii)the widow, widower or surviving civil partner attained state pension age on or after the second abolition date;]

(b)for any period for which widowed parent’s allowance or bereavement allowance is payable to the [F34widow, widower or surviving civil partner] by virtue of the earner’s contributions; and

(c)in the case of a [F34widow, widower or surviving civil partner] whose entitlement by virtue of the earner’s contributions to a widowed parent’s allowance or bereavement allowance has come to an end at a time after the [F34widow, widower or surviving civil partner] attained the age of 45, for so much of the period beginning with the time when the entitlement came to an end as neither—

[F36(i)comprises a period during which the widow, widower or surviving civil partner and [F37another person are living together [F38as if they were a married couple or civil partners];] nor

(ii)falls after the time of any—

(a)marriage; or

(b)formation of a civil partnership,

by the widow or widower or surviving civil partner which takes place after the earner’s death.]]

[F39(4B)Sub-paragraphs (i)(b) and (ii)(b) of subsection (4A)(c) do not apply where the earner dies before 5th December 2005.]

(5)[F40In the case of a woman who is the widow of a man,] the scheme [F41must also make provision] for the widow’s pension to be payable to her for any period for which a F42... widowed mother’s allowance or widow’s pension is payable to her by virtue of the earner’s contributionsF42....

(6)[F43In any other case,] the scheme [F44must also make provision] for the [F45widower’s [F46, widow's] or surviving civil partner’s pension to be payable] in the prescribed circumstances and for the prescribed period.

(7)The trustees or managers of the scheme shall supply to the [F47Inland Revenue] any such information as [F47the Inland Revenue] may require relating to the payment of pensions under the scheme to [F48widows, widowers or surviving civil partners].

[F49(8)Where—

(a)a lump sum is paid to an earner under provisions included in a scheme by virtue of section 21(1), and

(b)those provisions are of a prescribed description,

the earner shall be treated for the purposes of this section as having any guaranteed minimum under section 14 that he would have had but for that payment.]

F50(9). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F51(9A)For the purposes of subsection (4A)(aa) and (ab) a person attains state pension age when he or she attains pensionable age within the meaning given by the rules in paragraph 1 of Schedule 4 to the Pensions Act 1995.]

[F52(10)In relation to an earner who is a woman, a reference in this section to a relevant gender change case is a reference to a case where—

(a)the earner is a woman by virtue of a full gender recognition certificate having been issued under the Gender Recognition Act 2004, and

(b)the marriage of the earner and her widow (that ends with the earner's death) subsisted before the time when the certificate was issued.

(11)This section is subject to regulations under section 38A.]

Extent Information

E1This version of this provision extends to England and Wales only; a separate version has been created for Scotland only

Textual Amendments

F25S. 17(1A) inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(2), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

F26Words in s. 17(2)(a) inserted (E.W.) (13.3.2014 for specified purposes, 10.12.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 4 para. 20(2)(a); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(j)(vi)

F28S. 17(2)(d)(e) inserted (E.W.) (13.3.2014 for specified purposes, 10.12.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 4 para. 20(2)(b); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(j)(vi)

F30Words in s. 17(4) inserted (E.W.) (13.3.2014 for specified purposes, 10.12.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 4 para. 20(3); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(j)(vi)

F40Words in s. 17(5) inserted (E.W.) (13.3.2014 for specified purposes, 10.12.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 4 para. 20(4); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(j)(vi)

F43Words in s. 17(6) inserted (E.W.) (13.3.2014 for specified purposes, 10.12.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 4 para. 20(5)(a); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(j)(vi)

F46Word in s. 17(6) inserted (E.W.) (13.3.2014 for specified purposes, 10.12.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 4 para. 20(5)(b); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(j)(vi)

F47Words in s. 17(7) substituted (25.2.1999 for specified purposes, 1.4.1999 in so far as not already in force) by Social Security Contributions (Transfer of Functions, etc.) Act 1999 (c. 2), s. 28(2)(a), Sch. 1 para. 39; S.I. 1999/527, art. 2(b), Sch. 2 (with arts. 3-6)

F49S. 17(8) inserted (1.7.2005 for specified purposes, 6.4.2006 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2004 (c. 35), ss. 284(2), 322(1) (with s. 313); S.I. 2005/1720, art. 2(15)(a)(b), Sch. Pt. 2

F52S. 17(10)(11) inserted (E.W.) (13.3.2014 for specified purposes, 10.12.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 4 para. 20(6); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(j)(vi)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

17 Minimum pensions for widows and widowers.S

(1)Subject to the provisions of this Part, the scheme must provide that if the earner dies leaving a [F108widow, widower or surviving civil partner] (whether before or after attaining pensionable age), the [F108widow, widower or surviving civil partner] will be entitled to a guaranteed minimum pension under the scheme.

[F109(1A)But a scheme may be amended so as to omit provision of the kind specified in subsection (1) if the conditions specified in section 24B are satisfied.]

(2)The scheme must contain a rule to the effect that—

(a)if the earner is a man [F110, or a woman in a relevant gender change case,] who has a guaranteed minimum under section 14, the weekly rate of the widow’s pension will be not less than the widow’s guaranteed minimum;

(b)if the earner is a woman who has a guaranteed minimum under that section, the weekly rate of the widower’s pension will be not less than the widower’s guaranteed minimum;

[F111(c)if the earner is a person who has a guaranteed minimum under that section, the weekly rate of the surviving civil partner’s pension will not be less than the surviving civil partner’s guaranteed minimum;]

[F112(d)if the earner is a man who has a guaranteed minimum under that section, the weekly rate of the widower’s pension will not be less than the surviving same sex spouse’s guaranteed minimum;

(e)if the earner is a woman (other than in a relevant gender change case) who has a guaranteed minimum under that section, the weekly rate of the widow’s pension will not be less than the surviving same sex spouse’s guaranteed minimum.]

(3)The widow’s guaranteed minimum shall be half that of the earner.

(4)The widower’s [F113or surviving civil partner's] [F114or surviving same sex spouse’s] guaranteed minimum shall be one-half of that part of the earner’s guaranteed minimum which is attributable to earnings factors for the tax year 1988-89 and subsequent tax years.

[F115(4A)[F116Subject to subsection (4B)] the scheme must provide for the [F117widow's, widower’s or surviving civil partner's] pension to be payable to the [F118widow, widower or surviving civil partner]—

(a)for any period for which a Category B retirement pension is payable to the [F118widow, widower or surviving civil partner] by virtue of the earner’s contributions or would be so payable but for section 43(1) of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 (persons entitled to more than one retirement pension);

[F35(aa)for life, in a case where—

(i)the widow, widower or surviving civil partner attained state pension age on or after the second abolition date, and

(ii)the earner died on or after the date on which the widow, widower or surviving civil partner attained state pension age;

(ab)for any period after the widow, widower or surviving civil partner has attained state pension age, in a case where—

(i)the earner died before the widow, widower or surviving civil partner attained state pension age,

(ii)the widow, widower or surviving civil partner did not marry or form a civil partnership after the death and before attaining state pension age, and

(iii)the widow, widower or surviving civil partner attained state pension age on or after the second abolition date;]

(b)for any period for which widowed parent’s allowance or bereavement allowance is payable to the [F118widow, widower or surviving civil partner] by virtue of the earner’s contributions; and

(c)in the case of a [F118widow, widower or surviving civil partner] whose entitlement by virtue of the earner’s contributions to a widowed parent’s allowance or bereavement allowance has come to an end at a time after the [F118widow, widower or surviving civil partner] attained the age of 45, for so much of the period beginning with the time when the entitlement came to an end as neither—

[F119(i)comprises a period during which the widow, widower or surviving civil partner and [F120another person are living together as a married couple;] nor

(ii)falls after the time of any—

(a)marriage; or

(b)formation of a civil partnership,

by the widow or widower or surviving civil partner which takes place after the earner’s death.]]

[F121(4B)Sub-paragraphs (i)(b) and (ii)(b) of subsection (4A)(c) do not apply where the earner dies before 5th December 2005.]

(5)[F122In the case of a woman who is the widow of a man,] the scheme [F123must also make provision] for the widow’s pension to be payable to her for any period for which a F124... widowed mother’s allowance or widow’s pension is payable to her by virtue of the earner’s contributionsF124....

(6)[F125In any other case,] the scheme [F126must also make provision] for the [F127widower’s [F128, widow’s] or surviving civil partner’s pension to be payable] in the prescribed circumstances and for the prescribed period.

(7)The trustees or managers of the scheme shall supply to the [F129Inland Revenue] any such information as [F129the Inland Revenue] may require relating to the payment of pensions under the scheme to [F130widows, widowers or surviving civil partners].

[F131(8)Where—

(a)a lump sum is paid to an earner under provisions included in a scheme by virtue of section 21(1), and

(b)those provisions are of a prescribed description,

the earner shall be treated for the purposes of this section as having any guaranteed minimum under section 14 that he would have had but for that payment.]

[F132(9)In relation to an earner who is a woman, a reference in this section to a relevant gender change case is a reference to a case where—

(a)the earner is a woman by virtue of a full gender recognition certificate having been issued under the Gender Recognition Act 2004; and

(b)the marriage of the earner and her widow (that ends with the earner’s death) subsisted before the time when the certificate was issued.]

[F51(9A)For the purposes of subsection (4A)(aa) and (ab) a person attains state pension age when he or she attains pensionable age within the meaning given by the rules in paragraph 1 of Schedule 4 to the Pensions Act 1995.]

[F133(11)This section is subject to regulations under section 38A.]

Extent Information

E2This version of this provision extends to Scotland only; a separate version has been created for England and Wales only

Textual Amendments

F109S. 17(1A) inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(2), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

F129Words in s. 17(7) substituted (25.2.1999 for specified purposes, 1.4.1999 in so far as not already in force) by Social Security Contributions (Transfer of Functions, etc.) Act 1999 (c. 2), s. 28(2)(a), Sch. 1 para. 39; S.I. 1999/527, art. 2(b), Sch. 2 (with arts. 3-6)

F131S. 17(8) inserted (1.7.2005 for specified purposes, 6.4.2006 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2004 (c. 35), ss. 284(2), 322(1) (with s. 313); S.I. 2005/1720, art. 2(15)(a)(b), Sch. Pt. 2

F133S. 17(11) inserted (E.W.) (13.3.2014 for specified purposes, 10.12.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (c. 30), s. 21(3), Sch. 4 para. 20(6); S.I. 2014/93, art. 3(j)(vi); extended (S.) (16.11.2015) by Pension Schemes Act 2015 (c. 8), ss. 81, 89(1)(d); S.I. 2015/1851, reg. 2(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Commencement Information

I2Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

18 Treatment of insignificant amounts.E+W+S

(1)Where an amount is required to be calculated in accordance with the provisions of sections 14(7), 15(1) or 17(2), (3) or (4) and, apart from this subsection, the amount so calculated is less than 0.5p, then, notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, that amount shall be taken to be zero, and other amounts so calculated shall be rounded to the nearest whole penny, taking 0.5p as nearest to the next whole penny above.

(2)Where a guaranteed minimum pension is attributable in part to earnings factors for the period before the tax year 1988-89 and in part to earnings factors for that tax year or for that tax year and subsequent tax years, the pension shall be calculated by—

(a)applying subsection (1) separately to the amount attributable to the period before the tax year 1988-89 and to the amount attributable to that and subsequent tax years, and

(b)aggregating the two amounts so calculated.

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

19 Discharge of liability where guaranteed minimum pensions secured by insurance policies or annuity contracts.E+W+S

(1)A transaction to which this section applies discharges the trustees or managers of an occupational pension scheme from their liability to provide for or in respect of any person guaranteed minimum pensions—

(a)if it is carried out not earlier than the time when that person’s pensionable service terminates; and

(b)if and to the extent that it results in guaranteed minimum pensions for or in respect of that person being appropriately secured; and

(c)if and to the extent that the requirements set out in paragraph (a), (b) or (c) of subsection (5) are satisfied.

(2)This section applies to the following transactions—

(a)the taking out of a policy of insurance or a number of such policies;

(b)the entry into an annuity contract or a number of such contracts;

(c)the transfer of the benefit of such a policy or policies or such a contract or contracts.

(3)In this section “appropriately secured” means secured by an appropriate policy of insurance or an appropriate annuity contract, or by more than one such policy or contract.

(4)A policy of insurance or annuity contract is appropriate for the purposes of this section if—

(a)the [F53insurer] with which it is or was taken out or entered into—

(i)is, or was at the relevant time, carrying on F54... long-term insurance business in the United Kingdom or any other [F55EEA state]; and

(ii)satisfies, or at the relevant time satisfied, prescribed requirements; and

(b)it may not be assigned or surrendered except on conditions which satisfy such requirements as may be prescribed; and

(c)it contains or is endorsed with terms whose effect is that the amount secured by it may not be commuted except on conditions which satisfy such requirements as may be prescribed; and

(d)it satisfies such other requirements as may be prescribed.

(5)The requirements referred to in subsection (1) are—

(a)that the arrangement for securing the amount by means of the policy or contract was made—

(i)at the written request of the earner or, if the earner has died, of the earner’s [F56widow, widower or surviving civil partner]; or

(ii)with the consent of the earner or the [F57widow, widower or surviving civil partner] given in writing in a prescribed form;

(b)that—

(i)the case is one such as is mentioned in section 96(2); and

(ii)the policy or contract only secures guaranteed minimum pensions;

(c)that—

(i)the case is not one such as is mentioned in section 96(2); and

(ii)such conditions as may be prescribed are satisfied.

(6)In subsection (4)(a), “the relevant time” means the time when the policy of insurance was taken out or the annuity contract was entered into or, as the case may be, when the benefit of the policy or contract was transferred.

F58(7). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

20 Transfer of accrued rights.E+W+S

(1)Regulations may prescribe circumstances in which and conditions subject to which—

(a)a transfer of or a transfer payment in respect of—

(i)an earner’s accrued rights to guaranteed minimum pensions under a [F59scheme that was a] contracted-out scheme;

(ii)an earner’s accrued rights to pensions under an occupational pension scheme F60... to the extent that those rights derive from his accrued rights to guaranteed minimum pensions under a [F61scheme that was a] contracted-out scheme; or

(iii)the liability for the payment of guaranteed minimum pensions to or in respect of any person who has become entitled to them,

may be made by an occupational pension scheme to another such scheme [F62, to a personal pension scheme or to an overseas arrangement];

(b)a transfer of or a transfer payment in respect of an earner’s accrued rights to guaranteed minimum pensions which are appropriately secured for the purposes of section 19 may be made to an occupational pension scheme [F63, a personal pension scheme or an overseas arrangement].

(2)Any such regulations may be made so as to apply to earners who are not in employment at the time of the transfer.

(3)Regulations under subsection (1) may provide that any provision of this Part (other than sections 18, 19 and 43 to 45, F64... so far as they apply to personal pension schemes) or of Chapter III of Part IV or Chapter II of Part V shall have effect, where there has been a transfer to which they apply, subject to such modifications as may be specified in the regulations.

(4)Regulations under subsection (1) shall have effect in relation to transfers whenever made unless they provide that they are only to have effect in relation to transfers which take place after they come into force.

(5)The power conferred by subsection (1) is without prejudice to the generality of section 182(2).

(6)In the provisions mentioned in subsection (3) “accrued rights”, in relation to an earner, means the rights conferring prospective entitlement under the scheme in question to the pensions to be provided for the earner and the earner’s [F65widow, widower or surviving civil partner] in accordance with sections 13 and 17, and references to an earner’s accrued rights to guaranteed minimum pensions shall be construed accordingly.

Textual Amendments

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

21 Commutation, surrender and forfeiture.E+W+S

[F66(1)A scheme may, in such circumstances and subject to such restrictions and conditions as may be prescribed, provide for the payment of a lump sum instead of a pension required to be provided by the scheme in accordance with section 13 or 17.]

(2)Neither section 13 nor section 17 shall preclude a scheme from providing for the earner’s or the earner’s [F67widow's, widower’s or surviving civil partner's] guaranteed minimum pension to be suspended or forfeited in such circumstances as may be prescribed.

Textual Amendments

F66S. 21(1) substituted (1.7.2005 for specified purposes, 6.4.2006 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2004 (c. 35), ss. 284(1), 322(1) (with s. 313); S.I. 2005/1720, art. 2(15)(a)(b), Sch. Pt. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

F6822 Financing of benefits.E+W+S

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F68S. 22 repealed (6.4.1997) by Pensions Act 1995 (c. 26), s. 180(1), Sch. 5 para. 30, Sch. 7 Pt. III; S.I. 1997/664, art. 2(3), Sch. Pt. 2

23 Securing of benefits.E+W+S

F69(1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(2)Subject to subsection (3), the scheme must contain a rule by which any liabilities of the scheme in respect of—

(a)guaranteed minimum pensions and accrued rights to guaranteed minimum pensions;

(b)any such benefits as are excluded by section 13(6) from earners’ guaranteed minimum pensions;

(c)pensions and other benefits (whether or not within paragraph (a) or (b)) in respect of which entitlement to payment has already arisen; and

F70(d). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

are accorded priority on a winding up over other liabilities under the scheme in respect of benefits attributable to any period of service after the rule has taken effect.

(3)The rule may also accord priority, on a winding up occurring after an earner has attained normal pension age, to liabilities of the scheme in respect of pensions and other benefits to which—

(a)he will be entitled on ceasing to be in employment, or

(b)the earner’s [F71widow, widower or surviving civil partner] or any dependant of the earner’s will be entitled on the earner’s death.

(4)Subsections [F72(2) and (3)] do not apply to public service pension schemes.

F73(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6)Subsections (2) and (3) do not apply to schemes falling within any category or description prescribed as being exempt from the requirements of those subsections.

(7)If the scheme provides for the payment out of any sum representing the surrender value of a policy of insurance taken out for the purposes of the scheme, it must make provision so that there may be no payment out in relation to guaranteed minimum pensions except in such circumstances as may be prescribed.

Textual Amendments

F69S. 23(1) repealed (6.4.1997) by Pensions Act 1995 (c. 26), s. 180(1), Sch. 5 para. 31(a), Sch. 7 Pt. III; S.I. 1997/664, art. 2(3), Sch. Pt. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Commencement Information

I1Ss. 1-187 in force at 7.2.1994 by S.I. 1994/86, art. 2

F7424 Sufficiency of resources.E+W+S

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

[F7524AConversion of guaranteed minimum pension into other benefits: introductionE+W+S

[F76(1)]In this section and sections 24B to 24H—

(a)[F77the rules specified in sections 13(1)(a) and (b) and 17(1) are referred to as the “guaranteed minimum pension rules”,]

(b)[F78“GMP conversion” means amendment of the scheme in relation to an earner so that it no longer contains the guaranteed minimum pension rules,]

[F78“GMP conversion” means—

(i)the amendment of a scheme in relation to an earner who was alive immediately before the conversion date so that it no longer contains the rules specified in sections 13(1)(a) and (b) and 17(1), or

(ii)the amendment of a scheme in relation to a person who, immediately before the conversion date, was the widow, widower or surviving civil partner of an earner so that it no longer contains the rules specified in section 17(1),]

[F79(ba)“P” means—

(i)in relation to a GMP conversion within paragraph (b)(i), the earner mentioned in that provision;

(ii)in relation to a GMP conversion within paragraph (b)(ii), the survivor mentioned in that provision,]

(c)[F80a “GMP-converted scheme” is a scheme which has been subject to GMP conversion,]

(d)“the conversion date” means the date on which that amendment takes effect,

(e)“the pre-conversion benefits” means the benefits provided under the scheme [F81in relation to P] immediately before the conversion date [F82(disregarding money purchase benefits)],

(f)“the post-conversion benefits” means the benefits which are provided under the converted scheme [F83in relation to P] [F84(disregarding money purchase benefits)],

(g)“the converted scheme” means the scheme as it has effect immediately after conversion, and

(h)“the trustees” in relation to a scheme means the trustees, managers or other persons responsible under the scheme for effecting amendments of it.

[F85(2)The Secretary of State must give such guidance (if any) as he or she thinks appropriate about GMP conversion.]

Textual Amendments

F75Ss. 24A-24H inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(3), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

F76S. 24A renumbered (6.4.2016) as s. 24A(1) by Pensions Act 2014 (c. 19), s. 56(4), Sch. 13 para. 20(a)

24BThe conversion conditionsE+W+S

(1)This section specifies the conditions referred to in sections 13(1A) and 17(1A) (for exemption from the requirement to guarantee a minimum pension).

(2)Condition 1 is that the post-conversion benefits [F86(disregarding money purchase benefits)] must be actuarially at least equivalent to the pre-conversion benefits [F86(disregarding money purchase benefits)].

(3)Condition 2 is that if [F87the earner][F87P] was entitled immediately before the conversion date to the payment of a pension under the scheme, the converted scheme does not provide for a reduction of, or have the effect of reducing, the amount of that pension immediately after conversion.

(4)Condition 3 is that the post-conversion benefits must not include money purchase benefits, apart from any money purchase benefits provided under the scheme immediately before the conversion date.

(5)[F88Condition 4 is that the converted scheme provides survivors' benefits in accordance with section 24D in such circumstances, and during such periods, as are prescribed by regulations.]

[F88Condition 4 is that, in the case of a GMP conversion within section 24A(1)(b)(i) (GMP conversion in relation to earner)—

(a)the converted scheme provides benefits to or in respect of any widow, widower or surviving civil partner of P, and

(b)such conditions as may be prescribed are met in relation to those benefits.]

(6)Condition 5 is that the procedural requirements of section 24E have been complied with.

(7)In applying these conditions to a scheme [F89in respect of an earner]—

(a)it is immaterial whether or not on the conversion date the scheme was also converted [F90in respect of other earners][F90in relation to persons other than P], and

(b)it is immaterial (except for Condition 2) whether or not on the conversion date [F91the earner][F91P] was entitled to the payment of a pension under the scheme.

Textual Amendments

F75Ss. 24A-24H inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(3), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

24CActuarial equivalenceE+W+S

Regulations may make provision for determining actuarial equivalence for the purpose of Condition 1 of section 24B.

Textual Amendments

F75Ss. 24A-24H inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(3), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

24DSurvivors' benefitsE+W+S

[F92(1)This section specifies the benefits mentioned in Condition 4 of section 24B.

(2)The first benefit is that if the earner [F93is a man married to a woman or a woman married to a woman in a relevant gender change case, and the earner] dies (whether before or after attaining normal pension age) leaving a widow, she is entitled to a pension of at least half the value of the pension to which the earner would have been entitled by reference to employment during the period—

(a)beginning with 6th April 1978, and

(b)ending with 5th April 1997.

(3)The second benefit is that if the earner [F94is a married woman (other than in a relevant gender change case), a man married to a man, or a civil partner, and the earner] dies (whether before or after attaining normal pension age) leaving a widower [F95, widow] or surviving civil partner, he or she is entitled to a pension of at least half the value of the pension to which the earner would have been entitled by reference to employment during the period—

(a)beginning with 6th April 1988, and

(b)ending with 5th April 1997.

[F96(4)In relation to an earner who is a woman, a reference in this section to a relevant gender change case is a reference to a case where—

(a)the earner is a woman by virtue of a full gender recognition certificate having been issued under the Gender Recognition Act 2004, and

(b)the marriage of the earner and her widow (that ends with the earner's death) subsisted before the time when the certificate was issued.

(5)This section is subject to regulations under section 38A.]]

Textual Amendments

F75Ss. 24A-24H inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(3), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

24EProcedural requirementsE+W+S

(1)This section specifies the procedural requirements that must be complied with in order to satisfy Condition 5 of section 24B.

(2)[F97The employer][F97Each relevant person (if any)] in relation to the scheme must consent to the GMP conversion in advance.

[F98(2A)For the purposes of subsection (2) a person is “relevant” in relation to a scheme if such conditions as may be prescribed are met in relation to the person and the scheme.]

(3)The trustees must take all reasonable steps to—

(a)consult [F99the earner][F99P] in advance, and

(b)notify all members, and survivors, affected by the GMP conversion before, or as soon as is reasonably practicable after, the conversion date.

(4)[F100The Commissioners for Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs must be notified on or before the conversion date—

(a)that the GMP conversion will occur or has occurred, and

(b)that it affects the earner.]

Textual Amendments

F75Ss. 24A-24H inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(3), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

24FTransfer outE+W+S

(1)Regulations may prescribe—

(a)restrictions on the transfer of the [F101earner's accrued rights under a GMP-converted scheme][F101accrued rights of a person in relation to whom GMP conversion has been effected];

(b)conditions which must be complied with on the transfer of the [F102earner's accrued rights under a GMP-converted scheme][F102accrued rights of a person in relation to whom GMP conversion has been effected].

(2)[F103Section 20(2) and (5) shall apply to regulations under this section.]

(3)[F104Where a member of a non-GMP-converted scheme makes an application under section 95(1), the trustees may with his consent adjust any F105... cash equivalent so as to reflect rights that would have accrued if the scheme had been subject to GMP conversion in accordance with Conditions 1 to 4 of section 24B.]

[F104Where—

(a)a member of a scheme makes an application under section 95(1), and

(b)GMP conversion has not been effected in relation to the member,

the trustees may with the member’s consent adjust any cash equivalent so as to reflect rights that would have accrued if GMP conversion had been effected in relation to the member in accordance with Conditions 1 to 4 of section 24B.]

Textual Amendments

F75Ss. 24A-24H inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(3), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

F105Word in s. 24F(3) omitted (6.4.2015) by virtue of Pension Schemes Act 2015 (c. 8), s. 89(3)(b), Sch. 4 para. 5 (with s. 87)

24GPowers to amend schemesE+W+S

(1)The trustees of an occupational pension scheme may by resolution modify it so as to effect GMP conversion [F106(whether in relation to present earners, pensioners or survivors)] in accordance with the conditions in section 24B.

(2)The subsisting rights provisions within the meaning of section 67 of the Pensions Act 1995 (c. 26) shall not apply to a power conferred by an occupational pension scheme to modify the scheme in so far as the power enables GMP conversion in accordance with the conditions in section 24B.

(3)Where a scheme is amended to effect GMP conversion the trustees may include other amendments which they think are necessary or desirable as a consequence of, or to facilitate, the GMP conversion.

(4)Where an occupational pension scheme is being wound up, the trustees may, before the winding up is completed, adjust rights under the scheme so as to reflect what would have happened if the scheme had been subject to GMP conversion in accordance with Conditions 1 to 4 of section 24B.

(5)[F107In the application of section 24E by virtue of subsection (1) above, a reference to the earner includes a reference to a pensioner or survivor whose pension is subjected to GMP conversion.]

Textual Amendments

F75Ss. 24A-24H inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(3), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

24HEnforcement of GMP conversion conditionsE+W+S

(1)If the Regulatory Authority thinks that the conditions of section 24B have not been satisfied in relation to an amendment, modification or adjustment effected in accordance with any of sections 13(1A), 17(1A), 24F and 24G, the Regulatory Authority may make an order declaring the amendment, modification or adjustment void—

(a)in respect of a specified person or class of person,

(b)to a specified extent, and

(c)as from a specified time.

(2)Where the Regulatory Authority makes an order under subsection (1) it may—

(a)require the trustees of the scheme concerned to take specified steps;

(b)declare that specified action of the trustees shall not be treated as a contravention of the scheme if it would not have been a contravention if the order under subsection (1) had not been made.

(3)An order may be made under subsection (1) before or after the amendment, modification or adjustment takes effect.

(4)If the Regulatory Authority thinks that the process of effecting a GMP conversion of a scheme has been commenced and that a relevant condition of section 24B is not being complied with, or may not be complied with, the Regulatory Authority may by order—

(a)prohibit the taking of further steps in the GMP conversion (whether generally or in relation to specified steps), and

(b)require the trustees of the scheme to take specified steps before resuming the process of GMP conversion.

(5)Section 10 of the Pensions Act 1995 (civil penalties) shall apply to a trustee who has failed to take all reasonable steps to secure compliance with the conditions of section 24B in relation to an amendment, modification or adjustment effected in accordance with any of sections 13(1A), 17(1A), 24F and 24G.]

Textual Amendments

F75Ss. 24A-24H inserted (1.3.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2009 in so far as not already in force) by Pensions Act 2007 (c. 22), ss. 14(3), 30(2)(a); S.I. 2009/406, art. 2(a)(b)

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