The additional State Pension was a top-up to the basic State Pension and was replaced by the State Second Pension in 2002

Over half a million people are boosting their State Pension by more than £5,000 annually through inheritance, according to data obtained by a pension provider. A Freedom of Information (FOI) request by pensions mutual Royal London revealed that in the tax year 2023/24, over two million pensioners (approximately 2,027,440) received a payment from an inherited state earnings-related pension scheme (Serps).

This was part of the old State Pension system, which allowed individuals to accumulate entitlement to additional State Pension income. The figures indicate that around 541,760 pensioners were receiving more than £5,000 annually in inherited Serps payments, including 17,460 who received over £10,000.

If a person’s spouse or civil partner passes away, they may be eligible to inherit part of their additional State Pension. This will be paid on top of the surviving spouse’s State Pension when they reach the official retirement age, currently 66.

Surviving spouses and civil partners can potentially inherit up to an annual maximum of approximately £11,356.28 (£218.39 per week) for the 2024/25 tax year. For the 2023/24 tax year, the weekly maximum amount of inherited Serps was slightly lower, at £204.68.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) released this data, which was taken from its quarterly statistical inquiry. According to the figures obtained by Royal London, the average annual inherited Serps payment for 2023/24 was £3,377, reports the Daily Record.

Thanks to the inherited pension boost, some lucky individuals are raking in over £20,000 a year from an enhanced State Pension. The simpler ‘New State Pension‘ was rolled out in April 2016.

Royal London’s consumer finance specialist, Sarah Pennells, remarked: “This data shows how much of a difference inheriting a Serps pension from your husband, wife or civil partner can make. The worry is that, while more than two million people are claiming inherited Serps, others could be missing out.

“Understanding the rules is key to boosting your retirement income.”

Pennells further noted: “As we continue to adapt to the new system introduced in 2016, which focuses on individual entitlements, understanding the legacy of Serps and its relevance for thousands of retirees remains crucial.”

For those unsure about their rights to an inherited Serps pension, Royal London advises getting in touch with the Pension Service to find out exactly what you’re due – detailed guidance can be found on GOV.UK here.