What is an RF12 form used for in the NHS Pension Scheme?

Definition & Meaning of the RF12 Form

The RF12 form, officially known as the NHS Pension Opt-Out Refund Form, is used by individuals who have contributed to the NHS Pension Scheme in the United Kingdom and wish to reclaim their pension contributions after leaving NHS employment. This form is specifically for members who have opted out of the pension scheme and are not planning to rejoin within a specified period, typically twelve months. By completing the RF12 form, members can initiate the process of receiving a refund for their contributions, ensuring that they do not lose their funds after leaving the NHS.

How to Use the RF12 Form

To effectively use the RF12 form, individuals must first determine their eligibility. Members who have left NHS employment and have not rejoined within twelve months can apply for a refund. The process involves filling out the RF12 form accurately and submitting it to the last NHS employer. Here are the steps to follow:

• Confirm eligibility: Ensure that you have not rejoined the NHS Pension Scheme within the last twelve months.
• Obtain the form: Download the RF12 form from the official NHS Pensions website or request it from your last employer.
• Complete the form: Fill in your personal details, employment history, and the amount you wish to claim.
• Submit the form: Send the completed RF12 form to your most recent NHS employer for verification.

How to Obtain the RF12 Form

The RF12 form can be obtained through several methods. Individuals can:

• Download online: Visit the official NHS Pensions website to download the RF12 form directly.
• Request from employer: Contact your last NHS employer's HR department to request a physical copy of the form.
• Check with colleagues: Sometimes, colleagues who have previously opted out may have a copy of the RF12 form they can share.

How to Fill Out the RF12 Form

Filling out the RF12 form requires attention to detail to ensure accuracy. Here are the key sections to complete:

• Personal Information: Provide your full name, address, and contact details.
• Employment Details: Include the name of your last NHS employer and your job title.
• Pension Contribution Details: Specify the amount of contributions you wish to claim back.
• Signature: Sign and date the form to certify that the information provided is accurate.

Steps to Complete the RF12 Form

Completing the RF12 form involves several straightforward steps:

1. Download or obtain the RF12 form.
2. Read the instructions carefully to understand the requirements.
3. Fill in your personal and employment details accurately.
4. Double-check all information for accuracy.
5. Submit the form to your last NHS employer.

Who Typically Uses the RF12 Form

The RF12 form is primarily used by individuals who have:

• Left their position within the NHS and opted out of the pension scheme.
• Not rejoined the NHS Pension Scheme within twelve months of leaving.
• Less than two years of qualifying membership in the NHS Pension Scheme.

Important Terms Related to the RF12 Form

Understanding key terms related to the RF12 form can help clarify the process:

• NHS Pension Scheme: A retirement plan for NHS employees, providing benefits based on contributions.
• Opt-Out: The decision to withdraw from participation in the pension scheme.
• Refund: The return of contributions made to the pension scheme after opting out.

Eligibility Criteria for the RF12 Form

To be eligible to use the RF12 form, individuals must meet specific criteria:

• Have left NHS employment and opted out of the pension scheme.
• Not have rejoined the NHS Pension Scheme within the last twelve months.
• Have contributed to the pension scheme for less than two years.