Pension abroad

[dgs]

Just a quick question
Talking to a friend of mine this morning who is moving to Thailand permanently in May 2025, he will become of pensionable age a couple of months later?
Will he automatically get a letter some weeks before or does he apply?
Also is it just a case of his Uk pension being paid into an account abroad where he is? Any help appreciated. Thankyou

[Huxie]

These links may help:
https://www.gov.uk/new-state-pension/how-to-claim

https://www.gov.uk/state-pension-if-you-retire-abroad

[PallasAthena]

Will he automatically get a letter some weeks before or does he apply?

Both!

When approaching state pension age you should automatically get a letter from the DWP pensions people inviting you to apply for your SP. But then have to apply. If you don't apply you won't be paid any pension.

IIRC I got mine about 3 months before SP was due to start.

Obviously this does rely on the DWP having your current postal address. I assume they still send them even if your postal address is outside the UK but I haven't checked. However on the link in Huxie's post you can apply on line if you haven't received the letter.

SP is paid 4-weekly into the bank account you nominate when you apply. I assume it works same way if you live outside the UK, he would be able to get it paid into his Thai bank account.

[dgs]

thanks guys