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Nomination Form (NHS)

Also known as: Expression of Wish Form, Beneficiary Nomination

Definition

An NHS pension nomination form is a document that tells the NHS Pension Scheme who you want to receive death benefits from your pension, though the scheme trustees make the final decision.

Completing the right nomination form ensures your pension death benefits go to the people you want to support, separate from your will.

What Does Nomination Form (NHS) Mean?

NHS pension nomination forms are official documents that pension scheme members complete to express their preferences about who should receive death benefits. Also called "expression of wish" forms, they guide rather than bind the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) trustees who administer the scheme. Different forms exist for different purposes: DB2 forms for lump sum death benefit nominations (for most members), DB1 forms for older scheme members, and PN1 forms for partner nominations to receive adult dependant's pensions. Under The National Health Service Pension Scheme Regulations 2008, these nominations help trustees allocate death benefits according to members' wishes while maintaining discretion.

The forms work by providing guidance to scheme administrators when death benefits become payable. If you're married or in a civil partnership, you don't need to complete a nomination form for standard benefits—your spouse or civil partner automatically qualifies. However, you can nominate someone else if you prefer. For unmarried partners, both forms are typically needed: PN1 to nominate them for the ongoing adult dependant's pension and DB2 for the lump sum death benefit. Lump sum benefits typically equal 2x your annual pensionable pay if you die while working for the NHS. Dr. James, a hospital consultant living with his partner Maya (not married), completes both PN1 and DB2 forms to ensure Maya can receive death benefits as a qualifying partner—without these forms, Maya would receive nothing despite their relationship.

Nomination forms are separate from your will and cover pension death benefits only. NHS pension death benefits fall outside your estate, so your will doesn't control who receives them. Nominations can be changed anytime by submitting a new form, which replaces any previous nomination. For unmarried partners to receive benefits, they must meet strict qualifying partner criteria: 2+ years cohabitation, financial dependency or interdependence, exclusive relationship, and no legal barriers to marriage. Forms must be witnessed by specific people—bank officials, civil servants, doctors, magistrates, ministers, solicitors, or registered voters—but never your spouse, partner, or the person you're nominating.

Common Questions

"Do I need to complete an NHS pension nomination form if I'm married?"

No, you don't need to complete a nomination form if you're married or in a registered civil partnership. Your spouse or civil partner will automatically be eligible to receive death benefits from your NHS pension. However, you may still complete a nomination if you wish the lump sum to go to someone else.

"Is an NHS pension nomination form legally binding like a will?"

No, an NHS pension nomination form is not legally binding. It's an 'expression of wish' that guides the NHS Pension Scheme trustees on who should receive your death benefits, but they retain discretion in making the final decision. This is different from a will, which is a legally binding document.

"How often should I update my NHS pension nomination form?"

You should review and update your NHS pension nomination form whenever your circumstances change, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or changes in your financial dependents. There's no automatic expiry date, but regular reviews (every 2-3 years minimum) ensure your nomination reflects your current wishes.

Common Misconceptions

Myth: "My will controls who gets my NHS pension death benefits."

Reality: NHS pension death benefits fall outside your estate and are not distributed according to your will. You need to complete an NHS pension nomination form separately to guide who receives these benefits. Your will and your pension nomination form are two different documents that control different assets. The separation exists for tax efficiency—pension death benefits paid at trustees' discretion can avoid inheritance tax.

Myth: "Once I complete an NHS pension nomination form, my partner is guaranteed to receive my death benefits."

Reality: NHS pension nomination forms are expressions of wish, not legally binding instructions. The NHS Pension Scheme trustees have discretion and make the final decision about who receives death benefits, though they normally follow your nomination unless there are compelling reasons not to. Additionally, unmarried partners must meet strict qualifying partner criteria (including 2+ years cohabitation and financial dependency) to be eligible, regardless of nomination.

  • NHS Pension Death Benefits: The overall benefit package that nomination forms help direct, including lump sums and survivor pensions.
  • Pension Nomination: The general principle that applies across all pension schemes, of which NHS nominations are a specific type.
  • Death in Service: The circumstance that triggers lump sum death benefits, typically while actively employed by the NHS or within 5 years of retirement.
  • Lump Sum Death Benefit: The one-time payment (typically 2x pensionable pay) that DB2 nomination forms direct to your chosen beneficiary.
  • Qualifying Partner (NHS): The specific criteria unmarried partners must meet to receive nominated death benefits beyond just being nominated.

Need Help with Your Will?

Understanding NHS pension nominations is important, but they only cover pension death benefits. Your will controls your other assets—property, savings, personal possessions—and is equally essential for protecting your loved ones.

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Legal Disclaimer:

This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. WUHLD is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Laws and guidance change and their application depends on your circumstances. For advice about your situation, consult a qualified solicitor or regulated professional. Unless stated otherwise, information relates to England and Wales.