A long-forgotten Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) letter could be the ticket to securing a £100,000 payout for bereaved families, it has recently come to light.
Despite the DWP’s policy of deleting records from before 2021, families still have the opportunity to pursue claims for underpaid state pensions if they can provide sufficient proof, such as old letters or bank statements that show pension amounts.
DWP Reopens Cases with Relevant Proof
The DWP has confirmed that it will reopen cases for families who can present “relevant proof” of underpayment. This is a positive move for those who manage to find historic letters or bank statements that indicate a discrepancy in the pension amount paid.
These documents could potentially unlock substantial back payments, with some families being entitled to payouts worth thousands of pounds.
For families that fail to act or are unaware of this option, they risk missing out on significant sums of money.
Government Stance on Underpaid Pensions
While the DWP had previously deleted records from before 2021, making it challenging to verify pension amounts, the department has now clarified that they will consider claims based on the relevant proof provided by families.
The DWP spokesperson stressed the importance of contacting them if the next of kin or representatives of the deceased possess any relevant documents, such as historic letters from the department. In such cases, the department may review the state pension award to ensure the deceased person received the correct amount.
Families Deserve Transparency and Fairness
The Liberal Democrat work and pensions spokesman, Steve Darling, expressed concerns over the DWP’s past approach, stating that it was deeply troubling for families to be told that the department could not verify pension records due to their deletion.
He emphasized that bereaved families deserve transparency and a fair opportunity to ensure that their loved ones received what they were entitled to. Darling commended the DWP’s decision to reopen cases based on documentation provided by families, noting it as a significant step forward.
Women Among Those Most Affected by Underpayment
Reports indicate that many elderly women have suffered from underpaid pensions, some of whom have unfortunately passed away without receiving the full amount they were entitled to.
Former pensions minister Sir Steve Webb and This is Money have highlighted the widespread issue of underpayment, particularly among older women who were unaware of the errors in their state pensions.
Documents that Could Help Reopen Pension Cases
| Document Type | What it Can Prove |
|---|---|
| DWP Letters | Shows pension amounts paid to the deceased |
| Bank Statements | Confirms pension payments received into the deceased’s account |
| Pension Award Letters | Clarifies the original pension amount awarded |
| Other Official Correspondence | Could provide additional evidence of underpayment |
Bereaved families still have a chance to reclaim underpaid state pensions for their deceased relatives, provided they can present sufficient proof such as historic letters or bank statements.
The DWP’s decision to review cases with relevant documentation marks a step forward for transparency and fairness, ensuring that those who were underpaid due to record deletion can still receive what they are owed.
Families who believe they might be entitled to back payments should reach out to the DWP with any supporting documents as soon as possible.
FAQs
How can I prove my relative’s pension was underpaid?
To prove your relative’s pension was underpaid, you should look for any historic DWP letters, bank statements, or pension award letters that show the amounts paid. These can be used to substantiate your claim for underpayment.
Can I still claim if the DWP has deleted records before 2021?
Yes, the DWP will consider claims based on relevant proof, such as old letters or bank statements. If you have these documents, you can still pursue a claim.
How much could a family receive for underpaid pensions?
The payout can vary depending on the amount of underpayment identified, but some families could receive significant sums, possibly up to £100,000.