When someone dies, it’s important that you inform each pension scheme they were a member of as soon as possible.
If the person had a private or workplace pension
Contact the scheme administrator or pension provider for each of the schemes to tell them of the death.
If the person who has died was employed, their employer might have contacted the scheme but it’s best to make sure.
The scheme administrator or pension provider will then write to you to tell you what happens next.
Pension schemes often provide death benefits to the member’s beneficiaries. If you don’t know what the death benefits are or the rules that apply, contact the pension provider or the scheme administrator to find out.
You can also ask whether you’re entitled to receive any pension benefits and/or a cash lump sum from the pension scheme.
If the person was drawing a pension, tell the pension scheme as soon as possible. Be aware that you might have to pay back any pension payments received after the date of their death.
It’s important to understand what will happen to your pension when you die. Find out more in our guide What happens to my pension when I die?
If the person was receiving a State Pension
You can use the Tell Us OnceOpens in a new window service to report a death to most government organisations in one go including dealing with a State Pension.
Once you report a death, they can stop paying the pension. In some cases, you may be able to inherit part or all the extra State Pension or lump sum they had built up. Find out more in our guide State Pension death benefits.
If you’d like to discuss your situation, call the Pension Service on 0800 731 0469.
The Tell Us Once service is not available in Northern Ireland. Find out who to tell about a death in Northern Ireland on nidirectOpens in a new window
Bereavement Support Service
Bereavement Support Payment is the main benefit available to you if your partner has died.
Find out how much it is and how to claim in our guide Claiming bereavement support payment and other benefits.
Need more information on pensions?
Call us free on 0800 011 3797 or use our webchatOpens in a new window. One of our pension specialists will be happy to answer your questions.
Our help is impartial and free to use, whether that’s online or over the phone.
Opening times: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Closed on bank holidays.
