Can employer change pension contributions...

[pebbles3004]

Without my consent/consultation?

I have just realised that my employer has accidentally reduced my pension contributions when I returned from maternity leave.

Before I went I was on a higher rate (both me and employer contributing more than the basic), but when I came back, the system did something funny and defaulted me back to the basic amount (which is crap - 3% and 5%).

I have to admit I have only noticed this as I have just trusted the system, after so many years of contributing to pension, I've never had an issue before. So it's been a full year and I've missed out on higher contributions.

Does my employer have any kind of responsibility to back pay what they missed, or can they just say "sorry about that" and move on?

@pebbles3004 theoretically payroll can just reinstate from the date you returned and the system will adjust in your next salary. However, the fact it goes back to a previous tax year adds complexity. The period will also be a factor I.e. couple of months is not unreasonable.

I would advise you talk to your Payroll Manager, you need the technical expert because of the tax year implications.

Just spotted it’s 12 months, that’s a long time. You definitely need to ask the Payroll Manager.