Teachers’ Pension Scheme Reviews: A Guide for Employers

As the financial year concludes, schools and educational establishments across England and Wales face the important task of managing their Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS) End of Year Certificate (EOYC) submission - a vital step in ensuring regulatory compliance and safeguarding contributions. Here’s what your organisation needs to know for the fiscal year 2024–25.

What’s New in FY2025?

RSM UK recently updated its guidance on the current EOYC review process. The key highlight for 2025 is a substantial increase in the employer contribution rate, now up from 23.68% to 28.68%, effective from 1 April 2024. Apart from this change, there are no notable revisions to the EOYC review approach by the TPS reviewer.

Deadline Timeline: Don’t Miss These Dates

• Year End: 31 March 2025

• Unaudited EOYC Submission: 30 May 2025 - all employers must confirm contributions paid through this date

• Audited EOYC Submission:

  • Non-local authority bodies: 30 September 2025

  • Local authorities: 28 November 2025

Top Tips to Ready Your Organisation

1. Agree Timelines with Payroll Providers

   If a bureau handles your payroll, set clear deadlines to avoid rushed submissions—delays leave little time for proper review.
   

2. Familiarise Yourself with TP Resources

   Visit the Teachers’ Pensions portal in advance to access the latest templates, guidance, and instructional content.
   

3. Verify Portal Access

   Ensure relevant team members have credentials for the TP Portal—this is essential for pulling required documents like the EOYC template and member data.
   

4. Conduct Monthly Contribution Checks

   Avoid errors by cross-checking contributions monthly. A simple Excel comparison of pensionable pay versus tier rates can help catch discrepancies early.
   

5. Match TPS Contribution Confirmations

   By late April, TPS will email your Data Centre mailbox with total contributions received. This figure must match the “Box 2d” entry in your EOYC template—discrepancies trigger rejections and delays.
   

Why These Reviews Matter

• Regulatory Compliance: EOYC is an assurance mechanism for the Secretary of State that contributions are submitted accurately.

• Risk Mitigation: Late or erroneous submissions can lead to administrative issues or even financial penalties.

• Financial Planning Impact: The employer’s increased contribution rate (now nearly 29%) significantly impacts staffing budgets—clarity here aids accurate forecasting.
  

What SJC Can Do for You

• EOYC Preparation Support: We help schedule and manage the process, ensuring submissions are accurate and timely.

• Payroll Coordination: Our team can liaise directly with your payroll bureau and internal staff to streamline workflows.

• Contribution Auditing: Monthly checks and reconciliation services to catch anomalies early.

• Expert Guidance: Drawing on best practices and up-to-date guidance to keep your organisation compliant and well-prepared.
  

By proactively managing your EOYC process, you protect your organisation’s finances and reputation—and ensure peace of mind. If you’d like tailored support navigating this year’s TPS requirements, get in touch with SJC, Chartered Accountants today.