Routine changes to Pension Schemes Online

21 July 2015

At the end of July HMRC will be making some changes to Pension Schemes Online.

The changes include removing the option for a scheme administrator to add themselves to an unknown scheme online or submit an online return for an unknown scheme.

From 27 July you will need a PSTR (Pension Scheme Tax Reference) to complete these actions. If you don’t have a PSTR you will need to contact HMRC with the SF reference of the unknown scheme and this can be done by calling the Pensions Helpline on 0300 123 1079.

HMRC will be updating the Pension Schemes Online User Guide.

In addition, the following changes will be made:

• The information required when registering a pension scheme will change, as will the online declarations.
• When making an application to register a new pension scheme it will no longer be possible to register for relief at source (RAS). A registration for RAS will only be possible once a pension scheme has a status of ‘open’.
• When making an application to register a Group Life or Death in Service scheme, a new type of ‘pension scheme structure’ will be available for selection.