The arrangements cover all civil servants and certain groups of non-civil servants, subject to eligibility.

classic was closed to new entrants from 1 October 2002.

After 31st March 2015, with the introduction of the new scheme alpha, no person is in or is eligible to be in pensionable service under classic unless the person is a protected member. This is because all other members would have transitioned into the alpha scheme from 1 April 2015.

A protected member means a full protection member or a tapered protection member.

If you have transitioned into alpha and you want to find out more about how this affects your pension, you should read the alpha scheme guide found here.

Introduction

This is your guide to the benefits you may be entitled to as a member of the classic scheme guide.

Membership

Up to 30 September 2002, the only pension offered to Civil Servants was the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme (PCSPS).

Paying for your pension

Your pension, together with your pay, forms part of your total benefits package. You must contribute a percentage of your...

Boosting your pension

Added pension is an additional amount of pension that you can choose to buy.

Leaving before pension age

If you leave voluntarily or opt out of classic before you retire and have at least two years’ qualifying service, you will have...

Retirement

There are certain conditions, which you need to be aware of before you apply for retirement.

Death benefits

A death benefit lump sum is payable when you die depending on circumstances.

Other information

If you have any concerns you should raise them with the Scheme Administrator (MyCSP). Often, a phone call...

Finding out more

The Scheme Administrator (MyCSP) holds your classic pension details on behalf of your employer and can, therefore, give...

Published:
14 December 2021
Last updated:
9 February 2022