Recovery from Estates - Pension Credit

[jane london]

I originally posted this in the Welcome forum but think maybe it should be here!

I have read previous threads on this subject but I have some more specific questions. Like others, I have been hit by one of those letters from the DWP asking for bank statements in 2003 when my mother claimed Pension Credit. She had an assessed income period and I am sure she was eligible when she applied, so it shouldn't matter if her savings increased. Similar to others' parents mentioned on here, being ill and immobile, she accumulated funds at the end of her life so that the figure on probate is higher than the original claim figure.

I believe she had a building society passbook at that time but I think it has been destroyed. Without the roll number and sort code, etc. the building society, now a bank, cannot locate this account. The account was closed so I presume it is not searchable under Missing Accounts or similar sites.

I think the other bank she was with will be able to provide a statement of her current account as at 2003.

However, without the original claim form ( why didn't I photocopy it?) I don't know if my figures will tally with the DWP's.

Others on here have said that you are within your rights to ask them for a copy of the original claim form - have they been successful in getting the DWP to give this?

I am currently in a bit of a panicky state with this tonight so would appreciate any help!!

[Bv123]

Re: Recovery from Estates - Pension Credit

Firstly sorry your loss. Please accept my condolences.

If you are the Executor or have POA or Grant of Probate etc, then I don't see why they would refuse you a copy of the original claim form, and also dates of when AIP was awarded.....and generally, all the awards and correspondences between your mother and the DWP.

I am still waiting for a reply from them with a similar request. I have been through this (and still am!) so just be aware this whole process can take many months.