WHAT HAPPENS TO THE STATE PENSION WHEN I DIE?

If you are single, the income stops on your death. However, if you are married or in a Civil Partnership, your surviving partner may be able to benefit. For example, if a spouse is only entitled to a lower State Pension because they did not have enough qualifying years, they may be able to have their pension increased up to the maximum State Pension. They may also be able to claim Bereavement Benefits including a one-off payment and an allowance for one year. And if your State Pension includes some State Second Pension, some of it may be able to be inherited by your spouse/partner. For information or advice on this, or other pension matters, contact The Pension Service – telephone 0800 7317898 or 08456 060265 Monday to Friday 8 am to 8 pm.