Help us unite Veterans with their pensions!
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 shows that the number of unclaimed deferred pensions has risen again, reaching 17,018*, up from 15,113 the previous year.
We are concerned to see this increase. Each unclaimed benefit represents a former member of the Armed Forces who has not yet received the pension they have earned through service.
The rising figure suggests that current efforts to reduce the backlog are not yet having the desired impact. More consistent tracing, clearer communication, and targeted outreach would help ensure that former Service personnel receive the benefits they have earned.
Through our Unclaimed Pensions Campaign we aim to raise awareness and signpost eligible Veterans to unite them with their pension benefits.
Are you eligible?
Yes? Next steps.
The pension is NOT paid automatically – Veterans must apply to Veterans UK using AFPS Form 8 or call 0800 085 3600 for further information.
If you were married to a Veteran who met the eligibility criteria above and they have sadly passed away, you may be entitled to dependant’s benefits. If this applies to you, follow the same steps.
How you can help support our campaign
Donate. Every gift takes us a step closer to linking up our Veterans with the pensions owed to them. We couldn’t do what we do without your support.
Share our campaign. We’ve created a straightforward ‘at a glance’ call to action leaflet to clearly explain eligibility and claiming processes. Please share it widely across your networks, and with anyone connected to the Armed Forces to maximize its impact.
Unclaimed Pensions and the Armed Forces Covenant
The Government has indicated its strong support for the Armed Forces Covenant. In that spirit, we invite it to do two things: update the rules so that all Veterans, current and future are notified of their pension entitlement, and to increase their efforts to identify those who have not claimed their pension to date and endeavour to contact them.
*Source: MoD AFPS Annual Report 2025-2026. This document is reproduced annually to incorparate any new figures.