A-Z of Benefits

Single person - £90.70
(adult dependant - £54.35)

Age addition for over 80's - 25p

Who is it for?
People reaching pension age (currently 60 for women and 65 for men) but being equalised and increasing. Can be deferred for up to 5 years.  Obtain a pension forecast from 0845 3000 168 or www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/statepensionforecast

Who pays it?
The Pensions Service (DWP)

Which leaflet? And how is it claimed?
NP46. Application forms usually sent out by TPS several months before. Can also be claimed over the phone and on-line.

What are the age limits?
60 (women), 65 (men) but age for women being raised for people born after 6/4/1950

National Insurance based?
Yes, but not for some people aged 80 and over. Widows and widowers can qualify for RP on spouse’s N.I.record (includes registered civil partners since December 2005).

Means tested?
No. There is also no restriction on amount of earnings.

How long does it last?
Unlimited.

What is effect on other benefits?
Taken fully into account as income by all means tested benefits.

Is it taxable?
Yes.

Increases for dependants?
Yes.

Payable if in EU or other?
Yes, but check for uprating problems if outside EU.

Points to watch
Basic pension can be enhanced by SERPS and State Second Pension. Pension can be ‘deferred’ and collected after retirement age in lump sum or as an increased payment. Retirement pension no longer 'downrated' during spells in hospital. Means-tested Pension Credit acts as top up for pensioners with savings and small occupational or works pensions.

The A-Z of Benefits 2008 was compiled by Gary Vaux and Community Care.