Closed petition: Allow State Pension to be passed to children, long-term partners, and dependents

Closed on 19 February 2026

We ask the Government to change State Pension inheritance rules so that individuals can nominate a beneficiary such as their child, long-term cohabiting partner, or carer – or offer them a lump sum – so it is not just a spouse or civil partner inheriting from the pension as at present.

State Pension benefits can only be inherited by a spouse/civil partner. Unmarried partners, adult children, or other dependents are excluded, even if financially dependent. Many may support adult children with disabilities, or are cared for by someone other than a spouse or civil partner.

We believe in having a system that recognises real-world relationships and dependency; allowing people to nominate a beneficiary, or offer a lump sum to dependents, could help protect vulnerable loved ones from financial hardship after bereavement.