Completing the Type 2 NHS Pension Scheme Self-Assessment Form

The Type 2 NHS Pension Scheme Self-Assessment Form is a critical document for salaried GPs, solo practitioners, and locum providers to accurately report their earnings and contributions to the NHS pension scheme. The 2022-2023 form deadline is upcoming, so I thought a guide might be useful for those struggling to complete it.

Completing the form with meticulous attention to detail ensures your pension record is current and safeguarding your future benefits. This guide will provide you, as a healthcare professional, with the necessary information and step-by-step instructions for a smooth and professional completion process.

Eligibility for Submission:

The Type 2 form is mandatory for the following individuals:

• Salaried GPs: This category encompasses GPs employed by a practice and receiving a regular salary. 
• Solo GPs: If you manage your independent practice and are not directly employed by another organization, you fall under this category. 
• Locum GPs: Locum providers fill temporary positions in practices or other healthcare settings. They need to submit the form if they worked locum shifts during the relevant tax year. However if you only a locum GP with no other NHS roles, you do not need to fill in this form, your locum form A and B's are sufficient.
• Combined Roles: If you perform a combination of salaried, solo, and locum work, you still need to submit a single Type 2 form, comprehensively detailing income from all sources.

Essential Dates and Resources:

Submission Deadline: Adhering to the designated deadline is crucial. Typically, the deadline is 28th February each year, however the deadline this year has been extedned to 31st March. Late submissions may result in delays or inaccuracies in your pension record. 

Accessing the Form and Guidance: The most recent version of the form and accompanying guidance notes are readily available for download on the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) website.

Record Keeping: Maintain copies of your completed forms for your personal records. These copies can be invaluable for future reference or in case of inquiries.

Completing the Form: A Step-by-Step Guide

Personal Details:

Provide your full name, any previous name you used, NHS Pension Scheme membership number (SD number), National Insurance number, and contact information with complete accuracy. Identify and accurately input the Employing Authority (EA) code for the local PCSE team or Local Health Board (LHB) you worked for in the relevant tax year. You can find the EA code on the NHSBSA website using the provided link.

Employment Details:

Meticulously list the names and full addresses of all practices, LHBs, or Out of Hours providers where you directly worked during the tax year. If you received any income through an agency, clearly list the agency's name and address as a separate entry.

Income:

Enter your total pensionable pay from each employer you worked for during the tax year with precise accuracy. This includes any locum or solo income you earned. If you took approved maternity, paternity, adoption, or sick leave, tick the designated box and proceed to the "Authorised Leave" section. In this section, accurately enter the hypothetical full-time pay you would have earned during those periods of leave.

Contributions:

The form automatically calculates your employee contributions based on the total pensionable pay you entered. You do not need to perform any manual calculations in this section.

Declarations and Signatures:

Thoroughly review the entire form to ensure the information you provided is factually accurate and complete. Sign and date the form in the designated section to submit your declaration.

Additional Tips for a Seamless Process:

Gather Necessary Information: Before starting the form, have all your relevant pay slips and income records readily available. This ensures you can enter the required details with accuracy and efficiency.

Seek Clarification: If you encounter any uncertainties or have questions about specific sections, don't hesitate to seek guidance. You can consult your employer, contact the NHS Pension Scheme helpline, or seek assistance from a qualified financial advisor. 

Submission Options: Submit the completed form electronically through PCSE Online (if available for your region) or by post to the address specified in the guidance notes.

Remember:

Completing the Type 2 self-assessment form accurately and on time is crucial for maintaining accurate and up-to-date NHS pension records, thereby ensuring the security of your future benefits. By following the steps outlined in this guide and adhering to best practices, you can ensure a smooth and professional completion process.

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