Veterans are being encouraged to check they are not missing out on benefits they are entitled to through the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS).
The Forces Pensions Society reports that thousands of former Service personnel are still missing out on AFPS benefits they have already earned. The latest AFPS Annual Report and Accounts 2025–26 show that the number of unclaimed deferred pensions has risen to 17,018. This is up from 15,113 the previous year.
Anyone serving after April 1975 now aged 60 or over could have an Armed Forces pension if they served for two years or more.
More details on the eligibility criteria are available by visiting the Veterans’ Unclaimed Armed Forces Pensions Campaign website.
Importantly the pension is not paid automatically. Veterans must apply to Veterans UK using an AFPS Form 8 or by calling 0800 085 3600 for more information.
Spouses of veterans who have passed away may be entitled to dependant’s benefits if they meet the eligibility criteria. Applications can be made by following the same steps as above.
