You do not have to retire when you reach your scheme pension age.
If you are thinking about retiring or have already decided to retire, the booketThinking about retirement * helps you to understand the process and the booklet classic plus retirement benefits * tells you about your retirement benefits.
Calculators
The lump sum calculator will work out what amount of pension you can take in the form of a tax-free lump sum. The formula is based on you having to give up £1 of pension for £12 of lump sum.
Re-employment
You need to be aware that if you take your pension, whether through one of the early retirement options or through ill health retirement, your pension may be reduced if you are later re-employed by the same employer or by another employer who participates in the Civil Service pension arrangements. The leafletWhat is abatement?* tells you more.
You should also be aware that if you leave with benefits under the Civil Service Compensation Scheme and are re-employed by a Civil Service Pensions employer within 28 days of leaving, your compensation benefits will be cancelled and any compensation you have already received will have to be repaid.
* Booklets and leaflets are also available from your pensions adminsitrator – see under Pensions helplines for contact details.