Private pension/civil service pension

[Havanawinter]

I have recently joined the civil service having spent the first 10 years of my career in the private sector. During my time in the private sector I have accrued a very modest pension pot of £11,000.

I’m wondering what the benefits would be of transferring my private pension into my civil service pension account to boost it, versus leaving it where it is.

I have no idea where to start with this and would really appreciate any advice. Thank you.

I just left mine and intend that element to be my ‘lump sum’ when I need it (after 57/58). It gives me an element of flexibility. I’ve also topped up when I needed to bring my taxable pay below £50k for child benefit. Your choice may depend on how long you intend to stay in the civil service, your age and grade though.

you could always get a quote for how much they would offer you to transfer that money in and decide.

You only have a year to do it in

As above, there's a time limit after which the window to transfer cash into what I assume is the Alpha scheme closes.

Do you know what £11k would get you in the CS scheme? Can you actually buy in years of service?

Once you have the answer to the 'what will I get' question then comeback for opinions.