Published: 19 May 2026
Last Updated: 19 May 2026
How do I take my pension - what are my options?
You can usually choose how and when to take your pension. This may include taking your full pension, taking a lower pension with a lump sum, or choosing to delay taking your pension.
Your quote pack sets out the options available to you and what each one means. Take time to read this carefully before making any decisions.
I’ve applied for early retirement – how does that affect my quote?
If you take your pension before your normal pension age, this usually reduces your pension, because it’s expected to be paid for longer.
Your pension quote will include any early retirement reductions that apply.
The minimum pension age is currently 55 (unless you have a protected pension age). This will rise to 57 from April 2028.
What do I need to do about the 2015 Remedy (McCloud)?
If you are affected, your quote pack will include two pension calculations, and you will need to choose how you would like to take your benefits for the Remedy period (1 April 2015 to 31 March 2022). Your two options are:
Option 1: Take your remedy period benefits from your legacy scheme (classic, classic plus, premium or nuvos) and join alpha from 1 April 2022.
Option 2: Take your remedy period benefits from alpha from 1 April 2015.
Review both quotes carefully and select the option that works best for you. Mark your choice on the Retirement Option Form before returning it.
What is abatement and does it affect me?
Abatement applies if you take your pension from the classic, classic plus, premium or nuvos schemes and then return to work for a Civil Service employer.
In these cases, your pension may be reduced - this is called abatement. If you partially retire, your combined pension and salary after retirement should not exceed what you earned before. Alpha pensions are not subject to abatement.
Find out more about abatement
