RPSM02306080 - Scheme Administrator Pages: Registering a pension scheme with HMRC: Scheme administrator's role in the registration process: How to get tax relief

How to get tax relief

When the scheme has been registered, it qualifies for tax treatment as a registered pension scheme from the date of registration onwards. (In the case of registration applications on or after 6 April 2006, the registration date will not be retrospective).

Occupational pension schemes

Contributions to a registered pension scheme by a scheme member or by another person on their behalf can qualify for tax relief. If the registered pension scheme is an occupational pension scheme, the contributions made to the scheme may be paid gross, through the net pay system (that is, the contributions are deducted from pay before tax), and if so, there is no action for the scheme administrator to take.

All schemes (including occupational pension schemes)

If the contributions are received in the scheme net of tax (that is, the contributions are paid from taxed earnings or savings), the scheme administrator should claim tax relief through the relief at source procedure. For more information see RPSM05301000. The tax relief claimed by the scheme administrator is equivalent to basic rate tax. If the contribution is in respect of an individual who is a higher rate taxpayer, that individual must make a claim to HMRC in respect of the higher rate tax relief.

Investment income and gains

The scheme can claim tax exemptions on income and gains from scheme investments by confirming to the payer of the income that the scheme is a registered pension scheme and is eligible for tax exemption. If any tax is deducted, the trustees can make a claim for this from HMRC through self assessment using the forms which they can either print from our website or obtain from HM Revenue & Customs, Pension Schemes Services (see below). There is also an in-year claim form R63N which can be obtained from Pension Schemes Services. All claims should be sent to Pension Schemes Services.

Please write to

HM Revenue & Customs
Pension Schemes Services (PSS)
FitzRoy House
Castle Meadow Road
Nottingham
NG2 1BD

or telephone the PSS helpdesk on 0845 600 2622.