Many state pensioners risk losing up to £965 this July due to a common misconception—they believe their pension is paid automatically. In reality, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) requires retirees to formally claim their state pension.
The full new State Pension, awarded to those born before 1960, amounts to £241 per week, or approximately £965 per month. Despite this, official guidance from the Labour government and DWP emphasizes that “You do not get your State Pension automatically – you have to claim it.”
To apply, retirees must provide information such as details of their most recent marriage, civil partnership, or divorce, as well as any periods spent living or working abroad. Applicants will also need their bank or building society details, along with any social security numbers from foreign state pension schemes if applicable.
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If applying online, you must have the invitation code included in your letter about getting your State Pension. Those reaching State Pension age within the next four months can phone the Pension Service to begin the claim process.
After requesting a claim form by phone, you must complete it and send it to Freepost DWP Pensions Service 3. There’s no need to add a postcode or stamp—simply use the freepost address.
You can claim your new State Pension even if you continue working. Alternatively, you may choose to defer claiming, which could increase your pension payments.
Note that if you are entitled to a state pension from the Isle of Man, it will be paid separately from your UK State Pension. For Isle of Man pensions, deferral is not allowed after 6 April 2016 under DWP rules.
Taking the simple step to claim your pension ensures you don’t miss out on vital income in retirement.