Why can’t I opt out?

If you’re automatically enrolled but you don’t want to be a member, you can opt out of NEST during your opt-out period. This is usually around one month from the date your employer enrols you. To find out more information on opting out please see How do I opt out?

From the date of your enrolment you’ll need to wait three working days before your opt-period starts to be able to opt out. You won’t be able to opt out earlier than the start of your opt out period. We’ll tell you exactly when the opt-out period starts and ends in the letter we send you after you’re enrolled.

Your opt-out period is the only time you’ll be able to opt out of being enrolled in NEST. After your opt-out period ends you can still stop contributions but you won’t be able to take your money out until after the age of 55. To find out how to stop your contributions please see How do I stop contributions?

If you suffer from serious ill health or are unable to work you may be able to take your money out earlier than the age of 55. To find out how to do this see What happens if I’m suffering from ill health or incapable of working?

You may not be able to opt out if you’ve been enrolled as a different type of worker by your employer. If you’ve been enrolled as a volunteer or if you asked your employer to enrol you and they don’t contribute, you won’t have the right to opt out.