Campaigners are pushing for a much-needed reform of the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) State Pension inheritance rules. A petition on the Parliamentary website urges both the DWP and the Labour Party to update the system to better reflect modern family structures and caregiving relationships.
Currently, only spouses and civil partners are eligible to inherit State Pension benefits. This excludes unmarried partners, adult children, and other dependents — even if they are financially dependent. The petition argues that this outdated restriction leaves many vulnerable loved ones without financial support after a bereavement.
“Allow State Pension to be passed to children, long-term partners, and dependents,” the petition demands. “We call on the Government to introduce rules enabling individuals to nominate a beneficiary—such as a child, long-term cohabiting partner, or carer—or provide a lump sum payment. This would better recognize real-world relationships and help prevent financial hardship for those who rely on the deceased.”
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The existing rules stem from changes implemented in April 2016. For those whose partners reached State Pension age before this date, the pension may include two parts: the basic State Pension and an additional State Pension (previously known as the State Second Pension or SERPS).
Inheritance eligibility depends on factors such as when the deceased partner reached State Pension age and the legal status of the relationship. If the partner delayed claiming their pension (deferring), the surviving spouse might be eligible to inherit some or all of this deferred benefit or a lump sum.
However, unmarried partners and dependents remain excluded under current laws, prompting calls for more flexible nomination options to reflect diverse family and caregiving arrangements.
The petition highlights the need for the system to evolve in a way that protects those who depend on loved ones financially, ensuring they receive support during difficult times.