Graduated pension, How is it paid out

[johnk]

I paid graduated pensions from 1971 to 1975. Is this paid on top of my State Pension and do I have to claim it? I'm 65 next year.

[dzug2]

It's paid out as an extra with your state pension - you don't have to make a separate claim, just that for your stae pension. You should automatically get a claim pack a couple of months ahead.

[plautus]

I turn 65 in Jan 2014 (if I'm still alive) and was told by the DWP that I should automatically receive a claim pack in Oct 2013.

[johnk]

Thanks, That's one less thing to think about!!

[THECORBYLOON]

The claim pack will be sent four months before you're sixty-five. It'll be sent to the last recorded address so if you've moved you may not get it. If you've still not got it three months before you're sixty-five you should 'phone [phone] and ask for the claim pack.

As has been said, the Graduated Retirement Benefit (GRB or Grad) is paid on top of the Basic Pension so you don't need to make a separate claim. In fact, it's possible to get the GRB even if you don't qualify for any of the Basic Pension, if you've not paid enough NI contributions for example.

[factor-fiction]

If in doubt, you could apply for a state pension forecast which will include any graduated pensions /second-state pensions. The forecast might arrive before next year!

[boxtops]

Rats, factor, that's exactly what I was going to say! My forecast includes the GP contribution.

[johnk]

Gone for the forecast, thanks everyone.