The LGPS (NI) (the Scheme) is contracted out of the State Second Pension Scheme, previously known as the State Earnings Related Pension Scheme (SERPS). As a condition of contracting out for service before 1997, the Scheme had to guarantee that the pension benefits payable would be no less than a GMP. If you, or your deceased spouse, participated in the Scheme between 6 April 1978 and 5 April 1997 you will have earned a GMP. This GMP is not a separate benefit paid in addition to your Scheme pension but the pension we pay you must equal or exceed your GMP. HM Revenue and Customs work out the level of your GMP. Your GMP comes into force normally when you ask for your State Pension to be paid to you. (There are circumstances when the GMP comes into force at a later date but the effect on your Scheme pension is the same).