South Yorkshire Probation Service (CAS-30815-D1W9)

Ombudsman’s Determination

Outcome

I do not uphold Ms S’ complaint and no further action is required by GMPF.

My reasons for reaching this decision are explained in more detail below.

Complaint summary

Ms S complains that she is unable to take her pension benefits as a taxable lump sum (trivial commutation lump sum) because the value of her pension benefits exceeds the £30,000 limit (the upper limit) set by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

GMPF has said that Ms S does not meet the conditions to take her retirement benefits as a trivial commutation lump sum so it cannot permit her request. However, should the upper limit change, Ms S might be able to exchange her pension for a trivial commutation lump sum.