Get to know your options
There could be a number of reasons why you’re absent from work for a period of time. You could be away voluntarily, having a baby, seconded to another role where you can’t build a USS pension or you may need to be off work for reasons out of your control, like if you’re unwell.
Depending on why you’re absent, you may be able to carry on building a pension with us. If you stop making contributions while you’re off, your membership will be suspended until you start contributing again.
Use our Benefit Calculator in My USS to estimate how absences from work could affect your projected benefits.
If your membership is suspended but you want your life cover to continue, you’ll need to speak to your employer.
To understand all your options, see the Absence from work factsheet.