Separate sick leave from taking a pension
A period away from work, a change in pension contributions and an application for ill-health retirement are different matters. Start with the question you need answered today. You do not need to put a diagnosis in an organiser to identify a payroll or scheme contact.
Ask about contributions during absence
MoneyHelper explains that contributions during sickness or absence depend on the pension arrangement and pay circumstances. Ask payroll and the scheme what pensionable pay and contribution basis apply to the particular period. Keep their explanations beside the relevant pay and scheme records privately.
Ask the scheme for its ill-health rules
Ill-health retirement criteria vary between providers and schemes. Ask for the current written criteria, the application route and the medical evidence they require. Getting those details is preparation for a decision; it is not confirmation that you qualify.
- Who makes the scheme’s decision?
- Which evidence is needed, and how can it be sent securely?
- What is the next step and the expected response route?
Sources: Ill-health retirement: how to take your pension early
Keep State Pension separate
MoneyHelper explains that ill health does not allow State Pension to be taken before State Pension age. Ask about workplace or personal pension rules separately from State Pension and any other support.
Sources: Ill-health retirement: how to take your pension early
Get help before making a financial decision
Ask for a written explanation of any scheme decision and its review or appeal route. Taking a pension can affect other income and support, so seek suitable guidance or advice for the decision itself. This page does not calculate an award, assess benefits or recommend early access.
Sources: Ill-health retirement: how to take your pension early
Keep medical evidence with the appropriate recipient
Do not put medical reports, diagnoses, benefit details or real member references into the browser organiser. Ask the scheme how to send required evidence securely. All Pensions has no medical assessment, ill-health application or clinical advice service.
Sources & review
- Pension contributions during sickness or absenceChecked 2026-10-04
- Ill-health retirement: how to take your pension earlyChecked 2026-10-04
Next scheduled review: 2027-01-04. Provider details can change sooner. Use the official website for the current contact route.
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