No intention to misrepresent - simply answering the question. AFPS 05 is in a different statutory instrument to the EDP scheme. Here are the facts on EDP.
When AFPS 05 was being written, the intention was that it should be AFPS 75 with whistles and bells - including an IP. However, the Revenue told us that it would be outlawing pensions before age 55 except in case of ill-health with effect from 6 April 2006. So, back to the drawing board and the EDP was devised and is quite separate to the pension scheme.
To qualify for EDP you must leave after having served at least 18 yrs and having reached at least age 40 (but before age 55). You will get a lump sum normally equal to your pension lump sum (the 'normally' is to cover those with a pension sharing order who, although sharing their pension, will not be seeing a reduction in their EDP lump sum) and income, at the 18/40 point, of normally (for the same reason) 50% of the value of the preserved pension.
Anyone serving beyond the EDP 18/40 point will get an additional 1.6667% of preserved pension for each additional year served.
You can leave with an EDP and transfer your pension out of AFPS 05. You can leave with an EDP and have your pension paid early with actuarial reduction at any age after age 55.
If you wish to have your personal position set out for you join the Forces Pension Society (
The Forces Pension Society ) and we will delighted to help.