NHS Pension 1995 Section (Final Salary) Calculator
Calculate your NHS 1995 Section pension. Based on 1/80 of final pensionable pay, lump sum of 3× pension. Normal pension age 60.
NHS 1995 Section Pension Calculator
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NHS 1995 Section pension?
A final salary defined benefit scheme for NHS workers. The pension equals 1/80 of your best final pensionable pay multiplied by your years of membership.
Who is in the NHS 1995 Section?
NHS employees who joined before 1 April 2008 and did not transfer to the 2008 or 2015 Section. Active membership of the 1995 Section closed when the 2015 CARE scheme was introduced (April 2015).
What is the normal pension age for the 1995 Section?
Age 60. You can take benefits from age 55 with actuarial reduction, or defer to receive a higher amount.
What is the automatic lump sum in the 1995 Section?
An automatic tax-free lump sum of 3× your annual pension is paid in addition to your annual pension. This is unique to the 1995 Section.
What is pensionable pay?
The best of your last 3 years' pensionable pay (or average of the last 3 years in some cases). This is broadly your regular pay, excluding certain supplements.
Can I get the 1995 Section pension early?
Yes, from age 55 with employer consent (for those with protected status). The pension is reduced for early payment.
What is the McCloud remedy and does it affect me?
The McCloud remedy ensures members who were in service in April 2012 and April 2015 receive the better of their 1995/2008 Section benefits and 2015 Section benefits. NHS Pensions is implementing this.
Are NHS 1995 pensions inflation-linked?
Yes — NHS pensions are increased annually by the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) once in payment. This provides protection against inflation.
What happens to my 1995 Section pension if I leave NHS employment?
You have a deferred pension that remains payable from age 60, uprated by CPI. Alternatively, you may be able to transfer the value to another pension scheme.
Can I buy 'added years' in the 1995 Section?
The added years facility for the 1995 Section closed when the 2015 Section launched. You may have existing purchased added years that are still counted.
Does the annual allowance apply to NHS defined benefit pensions?
Yes. The annual allowance (£60,000 from 2023/24) applies to the growth in your defined benefit pension value. If you exceed it, a tax charge applies.
What are the NHS employee contribution rates?
Contributions are tiered by pensionable pay, ranging from 5.1% for the lowest earners to 13.5% for the highest earners (2024/25 rates).