Remarrying a younger man

Charis

I have searched the forums to see if this has been posted before, but drawn a blank. Sorry if it's been asked before. I have an acquaintance who is female, 64 years old and drawing a pension based on her late husband's contributions. She is considering remarrying but her fiance is 61. Will this affect her right to draw her pension, since he is not yet 65? Her intended is early retired, with a small, private pension.

Primrose

I think she will need to check with her pension provider if the pension concerned is an occupational pension. Not all the rules are the same but I believe it is fairly common for them to state that a pension being drawn as a dependent spouse after the death of the main pension recipient will cease on remarriage. In some cases this clause could also apply on co-habitation. If the pension concerned is the State pension I'm afraid I'm not sure what happens, but knowing the parsimonious state benefit rules I wouldn't be surprised if the same rule applies. Tell your friend to check this out thoroughly before she commits herself as she might have to live with the financial consequences for a long time.

bristol_pilot

My Mother is receiving an occupational pension based on her late husband's job. If she re-marries her pension will stop permanently. The age of the person she re-marries is not relevant to this. The OP's acquaintance should be very careful.

Charis

The lady in question only has a State retirement pension. On the other hand I am doubly glad I asked this question as I have an occupational pension from my late spouse's company. So I will have to be very careful should the opportunity for a relationship come about for me.

ALIBOBSY

When I used to do pensions in the DWP it was that once you are actually in receipt of your state pension remarriage doesn't effect it. As far as I can see online both on the gov.uk site and the age concern site it still agrees with this, but just to be sure if she gives them a buzz at the pensions service or age concern or welfare rights or cab they will be able to confirm the current situation remains unchanged. most occupational pensions and state widdows benefit (as opposed to a widdows state pension) do change or stop on remarriage.
ali x