The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is correcting State Pension underpayments by issuing back payments of up to £12,000 per claimant.
Thousands of pensioners—married women, widows, and individuals over 80—were affected due to administrative errors in pension calculations.
If you or someone you know receives a State Pension, this guide explains who qualifies, how to check eligibility, and when to expect payments.
Payments
The DWP is rolling out compensation payments in phases to correct historical pension errors.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to £12,000 per claimant |
| Eligibility | Married women, widows, over 80s |
| Reason for Payment | DWP administrative errors |
| Payment Timeline | Phased rollout in 2024 |
| How to Check | Contact DWP Pension Service at 0800 731 0469 |
| Official Website | Gov.uk – State Pension |
This initiative aims to compensate pensioners who missed out on thousands of pounds due to miscalculations.
Background
Errors in State Pension calculations caused thousands of retirees—mainly women and over-80s—to receive less than they were entitled to.
A government review found that:
- Manual processing errors led to incorrect payments.
- Lack of automation caused entitlement increases to be missed.
- Many pensioners were not informed of their correct pension rights.
To prevent future errors, the government is improving auditing and automation in pension systems.
Eligibility
- Entitled to 60% of their husband’s basic State Pension.
- Many never received this increase automatically.
- Some have lost out for decades.
Example: A married woman receiving a lower pension than she was entitled to based on her husband’s contributions.
Widows
- Pensions not recalculated after their spouse passed away.
- Many continued receiving their own pension instead of an upgraded amount.
- Lack of clear pension communication left widows unaware.
Example: A widow eligible for a higher pension based on her late husband’s record but never received it.
Individuals Over 80
- Should have received a non-contributory pension increase.
- Errors in records resulted in missing payments.
Example: An 80-year-old entitled to a higher pension but receiving less.
Checking
- Look at State Pension statements to check for underpayments.
Contact DWP Pension Service
- Call 0800 731 0469 to check your records.
- Visit the Gov.uk State Pension page for more information.
Provide Documents
Have the following ready:
- National Insurance number
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Spouse’s details (if applicable)
- Previous pension statements
Wait for Confirmation
- The DWP will review your records and confirm adjustments.
Appeal if Necessary
- If you believe you qualify but were not included, file an appeal with the DWP.
Payments
The DWP is issuing payments in phases to ensure accurate compensation.
| Phase | Status | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | Nearly completed | Married women and over-80s (simpler cases) |
| Phase 2 | Ongoing (2024) | Widows needing pension recalculations |
| Phase 3 | Under review | Complex cases (mixed contributions) |
- Eligible pensioners do not need to apply—the DWP will contact them directly.
The £12,000 back payment initiative is a crucial step toward correcting pension errors. If you suspect an underpayment, check your pension records, contact the DWP, and ensure you receive the money owed to you.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £12,000 back payment?
Married women, widows, and individuals over 80 affected by State Pension errors.
How do I check if I’m eligible?
Call DWP Pension Service at 0800 731 0469 or review your pension records.
Do I need to apply for the back payment?
No, the DWP is identifying and contacting eligible pensioners directly.
Why were State Pensions underpaid?
Errors in pension calculations, mainly affecting those with spouse-linked contributions.
When will the back payments be issued?
Payments are being made in phases throughout 2024.
