DWP urges pensioners to take action or face payment delays as they start retirement

The state pension serves as a crucial financial lifeline for people who have reached the age of retirement, with around 12.7 million people in the UK currently benefiting from it. Yet, many on the cusp of retirement may not be aware that the state pension isn't dispensed automatically by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

In fact, it's essential to actively claim it, or there could be hold-ups in receiving the initial weekly sum of up to £221.20, which amounts to £884.80 every four weeks. This is due to some opting to defer their pension to work longer and bolster their savings, particularly if they haven't amassed the full 35 years of National Insurance contributions required.

According to the DWP's reminded to people approaching pensionable age: "You do not get your state pension automatically - you have to claim it. You should get a letter no later than two months before you reach state pension age, telling you what to do.", reports the Express.

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Further advice states that individuals can either claim their state pension or choose to delay (defer) it. The guidance adds: "If you want to defer, you do not have to do anything. Your pension will automatically be deferred until you claim it."

People can claim the state pension online, by post, or by phone. Those applying online will need the invitation code from the letter about getting the state pension.

If an individual has not received an invitation letter but is within three months of reaching their state pension age, they can request an invitation code.

People looking to claim the benefit by phone must be within four months of reaching the state pension