Ensuring compliance with auto-enrolment obligations is essential for both employers and pension providers. Use this checklist to stay on track.
Employer Responsibilities
1. Stay Informed & Seek Guidance
Keep up to date with pension regulations and seek professional advice when necessary.
2. Choose a Qualifying Pension Scheme
Select a scheme that meets or exceeds government standards, such as the Jarvis Workplace Pension.
3. Automatically Enrol Eligible Employees
Assess and enrol all eligible employees without requiring action from them.
Employees must be assessed within 12 weeks of joining.
4.Communicate with Employees
Provide written details about auto-enrolment, including contribution rates and opt-in/out rights.
5. Manage Opt-Ins and Opt-Outs
Process refunds for employees who opt out within the designated period.
Enrol non-eligible employees who request to opt in.
6. Calculate & Pay Contributions
Ensure accurate employer and employee contributions based on pensionable earnings.
Deduct and submit contributions on time.
7. Complete a Declaration of Compliance
Submit the declaration to The Pensions Regulator within the required timeframe.
8. Monitor Ongoing Responsibilities
Assess new hires for eligibility.
Track employees’ age and earnings changes.
Re-enrol eligible employees who previously opted out every three years and inform them of their rights.
9. Avoid Prohibited Practices
Do not encourage employees to opt out.
Do not treat employees unfairly based on pension participation.
Do not provide financial advice to employees.
10. Pay Contributions on Time
Ensure all contributions are submitted by the 22nd of the following month (or 19th if paying by cheque).
11. Provide Information to the Pension Provider
Ensure employee data is accurate and submitted promptly.
12. Maintain Accurate Records
Keep records of:
Enrolled employees
Contributions and payment dates
Employee communications
Opt-in and opt-out requests
Retain records for at least six years; opt-out notices for four years.