Find out who's who
There are some key names and phrases you’ll see across our website. So we’ve listed them below –along with a short description of who they are and what they do.
Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) – this is the pension scheme itself. It’s set up under a trust and is governed by a trust deed and rules.
Universities Superannuation Scheme Limited – the trustee of USS. We (the trustee) make sure USS (the scheme) is run in line with the trust deed and rules and all relevant law and regulations.
USS Investment Management Limited (USSIM) – a subsidiary of Universities Superannuation Scheme Limited. It’s the principal investment manager and adviser to the scheme, looking after the investment and management of the scheme’s assets.
When you see the following terms on our website, here’s what they’re referring to:
- USS means the scheme. Or to keep things simple, it can also mean the trustee and/or USS Investment Management Limited.
- USSIM is USS Investment Management Limited.
- The scheme is USS Investment Management Limited.
- The trustee is Universities Superannuation Scheme Limited.
- We, us or our means the trustee or USS Investment Management Limited.
- Rules are the scheme’s rules. They may change from time to time.
Important note
Unless expressly stated otherwise, the content of this website and any factsheets and guidance issued by the trustee are for general guidance only. They are not legal documents and do not explain all situations or eventualities. If there is any difference between this publication and the trust deed and rules the latter shall prevail. Members are advised to check with their employer contact for the latest information regarding the scheme, and any changes that may have occurred to its rules and benefits.
If you want to seek guidance or take financial advice on the options available to you, visit the guidance and financial advice page. You’ll find a range of resources to support your planning and you can also find information on how to access an independent financial adviser.