Can a Child Collect a Deceased Parent’s Pension?

Wondering if a child can inherit a deceased parent’s pension? We break down what happens to pensions after death, who can claim them, and how to secure financial support.

Losing a parent is hard enough without having to navigate the confusing world of pensions and inheritance. If you’re wondering whether a child can claim their deceased parent’s pension, the answer is: it depends.

While pensions don’t always work like traditional inheritances, there are certain circumstances where children can receive financial support from a deceased parent's pension. Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.

What Happens to a Pension When Someone Dies?

When a person passes away, what happens to their pension depends on:

  1. The type of pension they had

  2. Who their beneficiaries are

  3. Whether they were already receiving pension payments

1. State Pension – No Inheritance (With Some Exceptions)

The UK State Pension is not automatically passed down to children. However, a spouse or civil partner may be able to inherit some of it under certain conditions. Children, unfortunately, are not eligible.

2. Workplace & Private Pensions – More Possibilities

For Defined Contribution Pensions (DC) and Defined Benefit Pensions (DB), the rules vary, but there are cases where children may receive benefits.

Can a Child Inherit a Parent’s Pension?

Scenario 1: If the Parent Had a Defined Contribution Pension

If a parent had a Defined Contribution Pension (DC) (the most common type today), what happens depends on whether they had started withdrawing it before passing away:

  • If they die before age 75 → The pension can usually be passed to nominated beneficiaries (including children) tax-free.

  • If they die after age 75 → The pension can still be inherited, but the beneficiary will pay income tax on withdrawals.

This is great news for children if the parent listed them as a nominated beneficiary on the pension plan. If no one is named, the pension provider might pay it to the estate instead.

Scenario 2: If the Parent Had a Defined Benefit Pension

A Defined Benefit Pension (DB) (e.g., final salary schemes) typically provides a spouse’s pension rather than payments to children. However, in rare cases, some schemes offer dependents' benefits, which may include children if they are:

  • Under 18

  • Under 23 and in full-time education

  • Dependent on the parent due to a disability

If none of these apply, children usually won’t receive a pension from a DB scheme.

Scenario 3: If the Parent Had an Annuity

If the parent used their pension to buy an annuity (a retirement income product), it’s unlikely to be passed on unless it was a special type called a joint-life annuity. This typically benefits a spouse or partner rather than children.

What Can a Child Do to Claim a Parent’s Pension?

If you believe you might be entitled to a deceased parent's pension, here’s what to do:

1. Check If They Had a Pension and Who the Beneficiaries Are

  • Look for pension statements or login details.

  • Contact their employer or pension provider.

  • Check if they named beneficiaries on their pension plan.

2. Contact the Pension Provider          

Each provider has its own process, but they’ll typically ask for:

  • Death certificate

  • Proof of identity

  • Evidence of financial dependency (if applicable)

3. See If You Qualify for Other Financial Support

If you don’t inherit the pension, there may be other financial help available, such as:

  • Bereavement Support Payment (for spouses/civil partners, not children)

  • Guardian’s Allowance (if you’re caring for a child whose parents have died)

  • Child Trust Funds & Savings Accounts (if the parent left other assets)

How to Make Sure a Child Can Inherit a Pension

If you’re a parent and want to ensure your child benefits from your pension, here’s what to do:

1. Name Them as a Beneficiary

Most pension schemes let you name beneficiaries. If you haven’t done this yet, do it now – otherwise, the pension might just go into your estate and be subject to inheritance tax.

2. Consider Setting Up a Trust

If your child is under 18, pension providers may not pay directly to them. A trust ensures the money is managed properly.

3. Review Your Pension Regularly

Life changes – marriages, divorces, new children – so review your pension beneficiary details every few years.

Final Verdict

  • State Pension? No (except for spouses).

  • Defined Contribution Pension? Maybe – if they’re a named beneficiary.

  • Defined Benefit Pension? Rare, but possible if under 23 or dependent.

  • Annuity? Only if it was a joint-life annuity.

If you’re a child hoping to inherit a pension, your best bet is a Defined Contribution Pension where you are a named beneficiary. If you’re a parent, make sure to nominate your children and consider a trust to ensure the money reaches them smoothly.

Pensions can be complicated, but a little planning can make a huge difference in securing financial stability for your loved ones.