Armed Forces Pension Claim Help UK
To claim your Armed Forces Pension in the UK, you must actively submit an application to Veterans UK, the Ministry of Defence agency responsible for military pensions. The scheme does not pay out automatically; you need to claim approximately three to six months before your pension is due to start. The specific rules depend on which of the three main pension schemes you belong to, which is determined by your dates of service .
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | Armed Forces Pension (AFPS 75, AFPS 05, or AFPS 15) |
| Eligibility | Veterans with at least 2 years of qualifying service |
| Application | Must claim manually; not automatic (form AFPS 8) |
| Processing Time | Typically 60 working days; currently longer due to demand |
| Official Agency | Veterans UK (Ministry of Defence) |
| Required Forms | AFPS Form 8 (claim), AFPS Form 14 (forecast) |
| Updated For | 2026 – AFPS 15 Remedy (McCloud) changes in effect |
What Is the Armed Forces Pension Scheme?
The Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS) is the official military pension system for UK service personnel. It is administered by Veterans UK, an agency of the Ministry of Defence (MOD). The pension provides regular income for retired service members and benefits for their dependents. Unlike civilian workplace pensions, the AFPS includes specific provisions for ill-health retirement, death-in-service benefits, and spouses’ pensions.
Why it matters: Your AFPS pension is a significant part of your long-term financial security after service. Understanding the rules and claiming correctly ensures you receive the full benefits you earned through your military career.
What you should do: Identify which scheme you belong to, request a pension forecast, and submit your claim form at the right time.
Which Pension Scheme Are You In?
Your pension scheme depends on when you joined or left the armed forces. There are three main schemes :
| Scheme | Joining Dates | Normal Pension Age |
|---|---|---|
| AFPS 75 | 1 April 1975 – 5 April 2005 | Age 60 (pre-2006 service) / Age 65 (post-2006 service) |
| AFPS 05 | 6 April 2005 – 31 March 2015 | Age 65 (Age 55 at reduced rate) |
| AFPS 15 | On or after 1 April 2015 | State Pension Age (Age 55 at reduced rate) |
Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2015 (AFPS 15)
This is the current scheme for all personnel who joined on or after 1 April 2015. All paid service counts towards the pension. You can claim at State Pension Age (currently 67-68), or at age 55 with a reduced pension. This scheme does not provide an automatic lump sum, but you can surrender up to 25% of the value for a tax-free lump sum .
Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2005 (AFPS 05)
This scheme covers those who joined between 6 April 2005 and 31 March 2015. Members under 45 on 1 April 2012 were transferred to AFPS 15. You can claim at 65, or at 55 with a reduced pension. An automatic tax-free lump sum of 3 times the pension is included .
Armed Forces Pension Scheme 1975 (AFPS 75)
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityThis legacy scheme covers service from 1 April 1975 to 5 April 2005. Paid service after age 18 counts (age 21 for officers). The pension age is 60 for benefits earned up to 5 April 2006 and 65 for earnings after that date. This scheme includes an automatic tax-free lump sum of 3 times the annual pension .
Who Qualifies for an Armed Forces Pension?
To qualify for an Armed Forces Pension, you generally need a minimum of two years of qualifying service, though specific requirements vary by scheme. Eligibility extends to regular and reserve service personnel, veterans, and in some cases, family members .
Eligibility Breakdown
| Category | Qualifying Criteria |
|---|---|
| Regular Service | Minimum 2 years service; specific rules for AFPS 75, 05, 15 |
| Reserve Forces | Qualifying service under Reserve Forces Pension Scheme |
| Medical Discharge | Immediate pension if permanently medically discharged |
| Spouses/Civil Partners | Eligible for survivor benefits under all three schemes |
| Unmarried Partners | Eligible only under AFPS 05 and AFPS 15 |
| Children | Eligible for children’s pensions with age/education stipulations |
Key Eligibility Points
Service length: Generally, you need at least two years of service to qualify for a preserved pension .
Medical discharge: If you left due to permanent physical or mental ill-health, you can apply for early payment of your pension .
Death benefits: Survivor pensions are available to spouses, civil partners, and children. AFPS 05 and AFPS 15 extend to unmarried partners .
Important: If you served from 1 April 1975 and left without an immediate pension, you likely have a preserved pension waiting to be claimed. Over 15,000 service pensions remain unclaimed .
Required Documents and Forms
To claim your Armed Forces Pension, you will need the following documents and forms:
Key Forms
| Form | Purpose | Where to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| AFPS Form 8 | Claim your pension (must be submitted manually) | Veterans UK or GOV.UK |
| AFPS Form 14 | Request a pension forecast | Veterans UK or GOV.UK |
| AFPS Form 12 | Annual forecast request (serving personnel) | MODNet or Veterans UK |
Documents You Will Need
Service number (essential for identification)
National Insurance number
Contact details (address, phone, email)
Bank details (for pension payments)
Evidence of service dates (if available)
Update your contact details: If your address has changed since leaving service, you must inform Veterans UK. Contact details can be updated by phone, email, or post .
How to Claim: Step-by-Step Process
The Armed Forces Pension is not paid automatically. You must claim it. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify Your Scheme
Determine which pension scheme you belong to based on your service dates .
Step 2: Request a Pension Forecast
If you are not sure of your entitlement, complete an AFPS Form 14 to request a forecast. For serving personnel, use AFPS Form 12 (available on MODNet) .
Step 3: Complete the Claim Form
Fill out AFPS Form 8, available from Veterans UK or the GOV.UK website. Ensure all sections are complete and include your service number and National Insurance number .
Step 4: Submit Your Claim
Send the completed form to Veterans UK:
Post: Veterans UK, Pensions Division, Mail Point 480, Kentigern House, 65 Brown Street, Glasgow, G2 8EX
Email: dbs-pensionshelp@dbspv.mod.uk
Step 5: Contact If You Missed the Due Date
If your pension is already due, you can still claim. Submit the AFPS Form 8 as soon as possible .
Step 6: Keep Your Contact Details Current
Ensure your address and banking details are up to date with Veterans UK to avoid payment delays .
Processing Times and Payment
How Long Does It Take?
Veterans UK aims to process complaints within 60 working days. However, due to increased demand, processing times are currently longer. Cases are handled in date order, and you will be kept informed of progress .
Pro tip: Claim three to six months before your pension is due to start to ensure payments begin on time .
How Is the Pension Paid?
Pensions are paid by Equiniti Paymaster, the MOD’s paying agent .
If your pension is in payment, contact Equiniti for queries about:
Payment dates
Changes to bank details
Address updates
P60 information
Contact Equiniti Paymaster:
Phone: 0345 121 2514 (overseas: +44 190 376 8625)
Email: veteransukpensions@equiniti.com
Pension Increases
Armed Forces pensions increase annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to maintain spending power. For veterans, increases apply at the following ages (unless medically discharged, where increases are immediate) :
| Scheme | Increase Applied |
|---|---|
| AFPS 75 | Age 55 (if pension in payment) or 60/65 (if deferred) |
| AFPS 05 | Age 55 (immediate) or 65 (deferred) |
| AFPS 15 | Age 60 (immediate) or State Pension Age (deferred) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming the pension is automatic: It is not. You must claim. Over 15,000 pensions remain unclaimed .
Not updating contact details: If your address changes, inform Veterans UK immediately. If they cannot find you, your pension may be delayed .
Claiming too late: Start the claim process three to six months before your pension is due .
Not nominating beneficiaries: If you die without a nomination, a lump sum may go to the wrong person. Keep nominations under review .
Ignoring pension increases: Not understanding how CPI increases work can lead to confusion about payment amounts .
Confusing Veterans UK and Equiniti: Contact Veterans UK for scheme queries and Equiniti for payment issues .
Not claiming a War Pension or AFCS: Your Armed Forces Pension is separate from compensation for injuries or ill health. You may be entitled to both .
Appeals: If Your Claim Is Rejected
If you disagree with a decision about your AFPS pension, you can make a complaint through the Internal Dispute Resolution Process (IDRP).
What You Can Complain About
Delays in processing
Incorrect information provided
Dissatisfaction with a decision
Scheme rules not being followed
How to Complain
Submit your complaint by email or post:
Email: dbs-afpsi-authority@mod.gov.uk
Post: Armed Forces Pension Schemes Manager, Veterans UK, Mail Point 610, Kentigern House, 65 Brown Street, Glasgow G2 8EX
Include:
Your name, service number, phone number, email, and postal address
Details of the complaint
How you want it resolved
Supporting evidence
What Happens Next
A desk officer investigates your case.
A deciding officer (senior manager) makes a final decision.
You will receive a written explanation of the decision.
If You Are Unhappy with the Outcome
You cannot appeal the final AFPS decision. However, you can contact the Pensions Ombudsman for an external independent review .
Pensions Ombudsman:
Phone: 0800 917 4487
Address: The Pensions Ombudsman, 10 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf, E14 4PU
Latest Rule Changes: AFPS 15 Remedy (McCloud)
The AFPS 15 Remedy (often called the McCloud remedy) addresses age discrimination found in the 2015 pension reforms. Under the changes:
Members who were within 10 years of their normal pension age on 1 April 2012 were allowed to remain in AFPS 05.
Other members were moved to AFPS 15 but may have the option to choose benefits from either scheme for the remedy period (1 April 2015 to 31 March 2022).
What you need to do: Veterans UK will contact eligible members. You may need to make a choice about which scheme’s benefits you wish to receive for the remedy period.
Support and Contacts
If Your Pension Is Not Yet in Payment
Contact Veterans UK for scheme queries, forecasts, and claims :
Phone: 0800 085 3600 (UK only)
Overseas: +44 141 224 3600
Email: dbs-pensionshelp@dbspv.mod.uk
Post: Joint Personnel Administration Centre (JPAC), Mail Point 480, Kentigern House, 65 Brown Street, Glasgow G2 8EX
If Your Pension Is Already in Payment
Contact Equiniti Paymaster for payment-related queries :
Phone: 0345 121 2514
Overseas: +44 190 376 8625
Email: veteransukpensions@equiniti.com
General Veterans Support
Veterans UK Helpline: 0808 1914 218 (England, Scotland, Wales)
Common Questions
1. Is my Armed Forces Pension paid automatically?
No. You must actively claim your pension by submitting an AFPS Form 8 to Veterans UK .
2. How do I find out which pension scheme I am in?
Your scheme depends on your joining date. AFPS 75 (1975-2005), AFPS 05 (2005-2015), and AFPS 15 (2015 onwards) .
3. When should I claim my pension?
Claim approximately three to six months before your pension is due to start. If you have already passed the due date, claim immediately .
4. What forms do I need to claim?
You need AFPS Form 8 to claim your pension. To request a forecast, use AFPS Form 14 (veterans) or AFPS Form 12 (serving personnel) .
5. Can I claim my pension early?
Yes, if you are permanently medically discharged or unable to work full time due to physical or mental ill-health .
6. What happens to my pension if I die?
Spouses, civil partners, and children may be entitled to survivor benefits. AFPS 05 and AFPS 15 also cover unmarried partners .
7. Who do I contact about my pension?
Contact Veterans UK for scheme queries (0800 085 3600). Contact Equiniti Paymaster for payment issues (0345 121 2514) .
8. What is a preserved pension?
A preserved pension is a deferred pension you earned during service but are not yet receiving. You must claim it at the appropriate age .
9. How do pension increases work?
Armed Forces pensions increase annually in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to maintain spending power .
10. Can I get a lump sum with my pension?
AFPS 75 and AFPS 05 include an automatic lump sum. AFPS 15 allows you to surrender up to 25% of the value for a lump sum .
11. What if I served in the reserves?
Reserve service may qualify for pension benefits. Contact Veterans UK for eligibility .
12. How do I update my contact details?
Contact Veterans UK by phone, email, or post to update your address or banking information .
13. What is the AFPS 15 Remedy?
A legal remedy addressing age discrimination in the 2015 pension reforms. Eligible members may choose between AFPS 05 and AFPS 15 benefits for the remedy period .
14. How long does a pension claim take?
Processing times vary. Veterans UK aims for 60 working days but is currently experiencing delays .
15. Who is the Pensions Ombudsman?
An independent body that reviews complaints about pension schemes if you are unhappy with the final decision .
Key Takeaways
You must claim your Armed Forces Pension – it is NOT paid automatically.
Over 15,000 service pensions remain unclaimed; don’t let yours be one of them.
Your pension scheme depends on when you joined: AFPS 75, AFPS 05, or AFPS 15.
Submit your claim three to six months before your pension is due.
Use AFPS Form 8 to claim and AFPS Form 14 for a forecast.
Contact Veterans UK for scheme queries and Equiniti for payment issues.
Survivor benefits are available for spouses, civil partners, and children.
You can complain through the IDRP if you disagree with a decision.
The Pensions Ombudsman provides an independent review option.
Keep your contact details updated to avoid payment delays.
Official Resources
GOV.UK: Understanding Your Armed Forces Pension – www.gov.uk/guidance/understanding-your-armed-forces-pension
GOV.UK: Veterans UK – www.gov.uk/government/organisations/veterans-uk
GOV.UK: Get Help from Veterans Services – www.gov.uk/guidance/get-help-from-veterans-services
GOV.UK: Make a Complaint About AFPS – www.gov.uk/guidance/make-a-complaint-about-the-armed-forces-pension-scheme-afps
GOV.UK: Find Support for Veterans – www.gov.uk/government/collections/find-support-for-veterans-and-their-families
Veterans UK Helpline: 0808 1914 218
Forces Pension Society: www.forcespensionsociety.org (independent advice)
🇺🇸 IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER – Veterans Benefits Information
This site provides general information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for educational and informational purposes only.
- Not Official: We are NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), or any other government agency.
- No Legal/Financial Advice: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. VA benefits rules change frequently – always consult with an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
- Official Sources: For official, binding information and to apply for benefits, always visit official .gov websites: VA.gov, Benefits.VA.gov, or SSA.gov.
- No Data Collection: This site does not collect, store, or process any personal information. It does not have login forms, contact forms, or any system to capture user data. We never ask for your Social Security Number, bank details, or any personal information.
- 🚨 Scam Alert: The VA and other government agencies never charge fees for benefit applications. If anyone asks for money to "process" your VA claim, it is a scam. Report it to the VA Office of Inspector General at VA.gov/OIG.
- Advertising: This site uses third-party advertising (Adsterra) to cover operational costs. We do not endorse or guarantee any products or services advertised.
📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All information is for educational purposes only. Please visit VA.gov for official information.
