By joining the Scheme, you’ve already started saving towards your retirement.

But have you considered whether it’s enough? Don’t leave it too late to plan for your future.

The good news is that the Scheme offers you ways to increase your pension savings if you’d like.

It is no longer possible to buy additional years of service by paying additional contributions, unless you have already taken out a contract. The exception is for male employees who joined before 1 April 1988 who may be able to buy additional service to offset the effect of the reduction which will be applied to the pension you earned before 17 May 1990 (known as the “Barber reduction”). If you think this applies to you and you require further information, please contact your pension scheme administrator, Railpen

What are additional voluntary contributions (AVCs)?

Additional voluntary contributions – or AVCs – are extra payments you can make towards your pension from your pay, aside from your Scheme contributions.

You decide how much you want to pay (subject to limits). Your employer collects contributions before your wages are taxed, so you get tax relief immediately.

Your AVCs will be paid into the investment funds you choose from the range available. The value of your AVC account when you retire will depend on the performance of your chosen funds and how much you pay in.

Please be aware that the value of investments can go down as well as up. The Trustee cannot give you any advice or guidance on your investment, but you may want to consider seeking independent financial advice before making any decisions about your finances. If so, you can find details of advisers in your local area at www.unbiased.co.uk

Prudential to Aegon Annual Transfer Option

Members who have opted out of the previous bulk transfer to Aegon have the option to transfer their Prudential AVCs to Aegon on an annual basis. If you decide to transfer your Prudential AVCs to Aegon, please complete the AVC Transfer form and return it to Railpen by 31st March 2024. For more information, please read the Annual transfer option document.

You will be exposed to out-of-market risk while your funds are moved from Prudential to Aegon.

Find out more about AVCs in the guide below or use the application form to apply to start paying AVCs: