What happens after a member has died?

Dealing with bereavement can be incredibly hard. That’s why dealing with a Nest pension in these circumstances should be as simple as possible.

Whether you're the next of kin, beneficiary or legal representative notify us by calling 0300 020 0090. This will allow us to get most of the information we need from you right away.

What happens to the pension after a member’s death?

Once we’ve been notified of the member's death, we’ll contact the relevant person(s) to get the information we need to pay out the member’s retirement pot. This may include:

• The member’s beneficiaries, if the member had nominated or made an expression of wish on their account prior to death.
• Their next of kin.
• Any dependents of the member at the time of their death.
• The person(s) dealing with the member’s affairs. 

What information do we need after a member’s death?

When you call us we’ll tell you exactly what we need from you. Depending on the circumstances this may include:

• Information and contact details for the member’s beneficiary, next of kin, any dependants or the person(s) dealing with the member’s affairs.
• The original or certified proof of identification for the beneficiaries, next of kin or person dealing with the member’s affairs.
• The original death certificate.
• The original or certified copy of the will, grant of probate or marriage certificate.

If you don’t want to send us original proof of identification, you can get your documents certified by a member of one of the professionals accepted by Nest.

We can't accept copies of birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate or civil partnership certificate, these must be the original copy issued by the registrar.

Please see What evidence do I need to provide to take my money out of Nest? for more information.

All original documents sent to us will be returned within 5 working days from the date we receive them.

What will happen next?

• We will check all documents are correct and valid.
• If all details are correct, we’ll send a ‘Payment instruction form’ to the beneficiary, next of kin or person who is dealing with the affairs of the deceased.
• The person(s) receiving a payout from the member’s retirement pot will need to provide their account details for where they want the money to be sent. Account transfers can only be made to valid UK bank or building society accounts.
• Once all the information is verified, a confirmation letter will be sent to confirm the amount to be paid.
• If we receive incorrect information or if the evidence is not accepted, we’ll get in touch with the beneficiary, next of kin or person who is dealing with the affairs of the deceased asking for more information.

How long will it take to settle the claim?

• At Nest we’re committed to make this process as simple and quick as possible for you. 
• Once we receive all the information we need, we will usually settle the claim within 20 to 30 days. However, some claims may take longer than this depending on the circumstances. 
• Please be aware for any death claims that are not paid within two years of us being informed of the death, or for any death claims in respect of members that were age 75 or over at the time of their death, that the amount payable would be subject to tax.