What you need to know

All members of the Armed Forces are automatically enrolled into the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS). Unlike almost all other schemes, servicemen and women make no contribution to their pension out of their salary.  Each year, the Government effectively contributes 52% of your current salary into your future pension. This fairly reflects the unique sacrifices you as a serviceman or woman make for your country throughout your career.

The Armed Forces Pension Scheme is a Defined Benefit scheme. A defined benefit scheme is one where your pension is based on the number of years you’ve served and the salary you've earned. This means it is not affected by the ups and downs of the stock market. The scheme is also protected by legislation and distributed from the public purse, so it can be depended and relied upon.

It is important that you have read and understood the following JSPs before proceeding:

Opting in/out of the Armed Forces Pension Scheme

If you wish to opt out of or opt back in to your AFPS, please complete the Opt in/out of AFPS (Form 16) and return by post.