Who can be members of USS? How do I join?
USS membership is voluntary but, because of the high quality benefits, it is assumed you will join unless you say otherwise in writing before you start work. But you can, of course, change your mind and withdraw without penalty, if you do so with 3 months of joining. You are usually automatically eligible to join USS if you meet the normal membership criteria e.g. under age 60 when joining, in an appropriate pensionable post, not a USS pensioner. This includes part-timers. For more information go to question “What about the benefits for part-timers and people who work irregularly for a USS institution?”. Check with your employer directly about USS membership status.
