Widow shocked by unexpected state pension cut after husband's passing
A retired woman faces pension complications after her husbands death earlier this year. The case shows how old pension rules can lead to unexpected changes in retirement income
A retired worker who paid into the system for over 40-years got a big surprise when her state pension dropped by £150 per-month after her husbands passing in early-24
The case of Doreen Smith highlights how complex pension rules can affect retirement income: her monthly payments went down despite having a full work record from the late-60s until 2011. Her husband was contracted-out of the state pension system for 9-years which created an odd situation
I had thought that my state pension should be based on my own NI contributions
Charlene Young‚ a pension-expert explains that the reduction comes from old rules about guaranteed minimum pensions (GMP). The system links widow benefits to their late spouses work history - even if they have their own full contribution record
Here are the steps Doreen can take to get answers:
- Ask DWP for detailed calculation of widowʼs GMP deductions
- Make formal complaint to Pension Service
- Contact MoneyHelper at 0800-011-3797
- Reach out to local MP if needed
The situation shows how pre-2016 pension rules still affect todays retirees; the basic pension stays the same but additional elements can change when someone becomes a widow. Its important to note that these rules dont apply to newer pensioners
