From 11 May 2026, councillors and mayors aged under 75 are once again allowed to join the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). This follows the introduction of the LGPS (Amendment) (Elected Member Pensions) Regulations 2026.
Eligible councillors and mayors may opt in to the LGPS and build up pension benefits in the CARE section of the scheme. Membership is not automatic and is not backdated. To join, an eligible elected member must complete an opt in form and return to the relevant payroll section.
The LGPS operates differently for elected members in some areas compared to employees. For example, councillors are not automatically enrolled, pensionable pay is defined by reference to allowances, and some retirement rules are modified.
Further information is available in the guidance below.
Previously membership of the LGPS was closed to councillors in England from 1 April 2014. Councillors who were members on 31 March 2014 were able to remain in the scheme until the end of the term of office they were serving at that time but were not able to re-join the LGPS in later terms. For information on the old scheme please see the below guide below.