Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003 section 400

Interpretation

Section 400 provides definitions for three key terms used throughout the chapter dealing with benefits from employer-financed retirement benefits schemes.

• An "employer-financed retirement benefits scheme" is a specific type of retirement arrangement as defined elsewhere in the legislation (section 393A)
• "Relevant benefits" covers pensions, lump sums, gratuities and similar benefits provided on retirement, death, or in connection with changes in service — but excludes benefits arising solely from accidental disablement or death during service
• The "responsible person" is the individual or individuals accountable for the scheme's tax obligations, as defined in section 399A
• These definitions apply throughout the chapter and are essential for determining who is taxable, what benefits are caught, and who bears administrative responsibilities