If you’re a Pension Credit recipient planning a summer getaway abroad, it’s important to understand the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) rules. Failing to follow these could risk your payments being paused or even stopped.
Pension Credit is a vital income top-up for low-income retirees in the UK, but the rules change when you leave the country even for a short trip. Here’s what every older person needs to know before going on holiday this summer.
Pension Credit and Travel: What You Must Know
Pension Credit can continue while you’re outside Great Britain but only under specific conditions. According to the DWP, these rules are in place to ensure the system supports those who are eligible and genuinely resident in the UK.
1. Holidays up to 4 Weeks Are Generally Fine
You can still receive Pension Credit payments if you’re away from England, Scotland, or Wales for up to four weeks. That’s good news for short summer trips to Europe or beyond.
However, to remain eligible:
- You must have been entitled to Pension Credit before you left the country.
- You must remain eligible while abroad.
- You should inform the DWP in advance about your travel dates and location.
Failure to do this can result in an overpayment, which the DWP will expect you to repay.
2. Bereavement-Related Travel May Be Covered for 8 Weeks
If your trip abroad is due to the death of a close relative either before or during your travel you may be able to continue receiving your Pension Credit for up to eight weeks.
This exception is only applicable if:
- You are unable to return home quickly.
- The relative is considered “close” by DWP guidelines, such as a spouse, parent, child, or sibling.
Again, it is crucial to keep the DWP informed.
3. Medical Treatment Abroad Has a 26-Week Rule
You may be eligible for continued Pension Credit payments for up to 26 weeks if you are going abroad specifically for medical treatment or convalescence.
This also applies if you’re accompanying a partner or dependent child who is receiving treatment abroad.
To qualify:
- The treatment or recovery must be approved by a medical professional.
- You must inform DWP with supporting documentation.
4. Moving Permanently Ends Your Pension Credit
If you’re thinking about relocating outside the UK for retirement, be warned: Pension Credit will stop completely once you move away from Great Britain on a permanent basis.
There is no provision for payment continuation if you change your country of residence.
Special Rules for Mixed-Age Couples
There’s a critical warning for mixed-age couples where one partner is under State Pension age and the other is over.
If your travel causes your entitlement to end (for example, if you’re away for longer than the permitted period), you might not be able to reclaim Pension Credit again unless both partners reach State Pension age.
This could result in a significant loss of income, so planning is essential.
How to Notify the DWP
Whether you’re going abroad for a week or a few months, it’s your responsibility to inform the Pension Service before your trip.
You can do this by:
- Calling the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234
- Using the details found on GOV.UK’s Pension Credit contact page: www.gov.uk/contact-pension-service
Have your National Insurance number and trip details handy when calling.
Payment Schedule Reminders
Pension Credit is generally paid every four weeks. If your payment date falls on a bank holiday, it will usually arrive on the working day before.
So, if you’re travelling during a bank holiday week, make sure your payments are arranged beforehand. Check your payment dates using the official schedule provided on the UK Government’s Pension Credit payments page.www.gov.uk/pension-credit/what-youll-get
Summary: What to Do Before Your Trip
Here’s a quick checklist if you’re going on holiday this summer:
- Check if your trip is under the 4-week rule.
- Notify the DWP using the Pension Credit helpline.
- Avoid absences longer than allowed, unless due to bereavement or medical treatment.
- Keep records of your trip and any supporting documents.
- Be aware of special rules if you’re in a mixed-age couple.
CONCLUSION
Don’t let your dream holiday turn into a financial setback. A short phone call to the DWP can protect your entitlements and keep your finances stable while you enjoy a break.
For more details on eligibility, exceptions, and guidance, visit:
