Financial and legal tips before remarrying
The number of us getting married in later life is increasing and the majority of these are remarriages after a divorce or bereavement. We know what an exciting and emotional time it can be, but there are also some key practical issues to consider when remarrying or forming a new civil partnership.
How will my benefits be affected if I remarry?
If you marry, register a civil partnership or live with someone as a couple, any means-tested benefits you receive, such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit (Rate Relief in Northern Ireland) or Council Tax Support, may be affected. Notify the office that pays your benefits as soon as possible.
Your partner’s income is also included as part of the overall assessment. If your benefits are affected, the amount you receive may go up or down, you may no longer be entitled to receive the payment, or you may be newly entitled to benefits. Any changes will depend on your individual circumstances.
Speak to the office that pays your benefits for more information. You can also find out what you could be entitled to using our personalised benefits calculator.
How will my State Pension be affected if I remarry?
The new State Pension focuses on individual entitlements and you usually can’t use your ex-partner’s National Insurance (NI) record.
If you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016, you will continue to receive the State Pension under the old system
See our section on the new State Pension for more information
How will my private pension be affected if I remarry?
If you’re a member of a company pension scheme and you decide to remarry or form a new civil partnership, you may want to change the nominated beneficiary for your pension. This is the person who receives any benefits from the scheme if you die.
How will my maintenance be affected if I remarry?
If you are receiving any maintenance (for yourself as opposed to any children) from your ex-partner, this may stop when you remarry and it can also happen if you co-habit. Child support will not be affected.
How will my will be affected if I remarry?
Remarrying or entering a new civil partnership invalidates any existing will you have, but a divorce or civil partnership dissolution does not. You can add a clause to your will to prevent it being cancelled by your remarriage, but it may be advisable to make a new will to reflect your new circumstances.
What can I do next?
Benefits Calculator
Use the online benefits calculator to find out much money could you claim.
Age NI Advice Service
Every year our Advice Service deals with thousands of calls from older people in need. Call us today to make sure that you are receiving all the help and support available to you.