The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a stark warning to approximately 1.4 million retirees that taking overseas holidays could result in losing the Pension Credit element of their state pension. Pension Credit comes with specific conditions regarding foreign travel, and failing to follow the correct procedure could see the benefit completely withdrawn.
Anyone claiming Pension Credit must declare their travel plans to ensure their entitlement remains unaffected. Those who meet the requirements can continue to receive payments for a maximum of four weeks, while individuals dealing with a bereavement may receive an additional four weeks. The benefit can also be extended by up to 26 weeks for medical reasons.
The DWP stated: "You need to report changes to you and your partner's personal and financial circumstances. Your claim might be stopped or reduced if you do not report a change straight away. Some changes will increase the amount of Pension Credit you could get."
Full List of Personal Circumstances That Require DWP Notification
- Moving to a new address
- Starting or stopping living with a partner
- The death of a partner who is named on your claim
- Starting or stopping work
- Going into hospital or a care home
- People moving in or out of your house
- Changing your name
- Switching your bank account
- Changes to your Post Office card account
- Leaving England, Scotland, and Wales for any period (for example, going on holiday)
- You start or stop looking after a child or young person under the age of 20
- Changes to your immigration status, if you are not a British citizen
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