Overview

This bill proposes to amend various pension regulations across the UK, extending the definition of "terminally ill" from six to twelve months of life expectancy. This change impacts access to specific pension benefits for individuals facing end-of-life situations.

Description

The Pension (Special Rules for End of Life) Bill aims to modify the life expectancy criterion used in determining eligibility for certain pension-related benefits for terminally ill individuals. Currently, several acts and regulations (Pensions Act 2004, Pensions Act 2008, Pensions (Northern Ireland) Order 2005, Pensions (No. 2) Act (Northern Ireland) 2008, and the Financial Assistance Scheme Regulations 2005) define "terminally ill" as having a life expectancy of six months or less. This bill seeks to change that to twelve months. The amendments will apply to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, though the commencement dates may vary. The Secretary of State and the Department for Communities in Northern Ireland will have the power to establish commencement dates for the respective regions and introduce transitional provisions to address any potential issues during implementation.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any changes to government spending. The financial implications will depend on the number of individuals who become eligible for pension benefits under the extended definition of "terminally ill". No figures have been provided.

Groups Affected

This bill primarily affects individuals who are terminally ill with a life expectancy between six and twelve months. It could positively impact them by allowing earlier access to pension benefits. Pension providers and government agencies administering pension schemes will also be affected, needing to update their procedures to reflect the revised definition of "terminally ill".

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