Retiring from the Civil Service involves two linked decisions: ending employment and claiming pension benefits. The dates and paperwork need to align, and the right route depends on your pension scheme, age and circumstances.
On this page
Start with the pension scheme information
Obtain an up-to-date estimate and read the retirement guidance for your scheme. Normal, early, partial and ill-health retirement have different conditions and effects.
A general pension figure is not a final retirement quote.
Give enough time
Retirement applications, employer forms and payroll changes can take time. Work backwards from the intended retirement date and follow the scheme and departmental lead times.
Confirm when salary ends and pension payments are expected to begin.
Partial retirement is different
Partial retirement can allow eligible members to take some pension while continuing to work, usually with an agreed reduction in pay or working commitment under scheme rules.
It requires employer and pension steps. Do not treat it as ordinary flexible working.
Civil Service departments use different contracts, policies and approval routes. Check your own contract, intranet guidance, scheme documents and any letter you have received before acting.
Members can unlock the retirement planning timeline, pension and payroll question list, partial-retirement comparison and model wording for coordinating the employment and pension dates.
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