During our work with the older British population on the Costa del Sol we have become aware that there are a number of aspects of retirement to Spain requiring clarification. What follows is a resumé of some of the problems we have encountered. For comprehensive information it is suggested that you access the web site www.direct.gov.uk/BritonsLivingAbroad/index.htm.

How can I claim a UK State Pension?

Research shows that more British people under state retirement age are migrating to Spain either permanently or for long periods each year. The UK State Pension age is currently 65 for men and 60 for women. The pension age for women is changing and will gradually increase from 60 to 65 between 2010 – 2020. If you are more than four months away from the UK State Pension age you can request a pension forecast. This will tell you what pension you can expect to receive depending on your insurance contributions. If you have paid National Insurance contributions in the UK, the Department for Work and Pensions will usually send you a claim form about four months before you reach UK State Pension age. Our Fact Sheet explains how to claim your pension and other helpful information.

Is my Disability Living Allowance exportable?

In general terms the answer is no. If you were in receipt of a DLA when living in the UK, but now reside permanently in Spain, DLA is not usually exportable. However, if you started to get DLA before June 1992 you may be able to continue getting it if you are living in the European Economic Area (Spain for instance). It is suggested that if you are unsure about your right to DLA contact the Benefit Enquiry Line in the UK, telephone 0800882200. Note: it is important to keep up to date with what, how and when social security and other benefits are paid because regulations and entitlements can change over time.

My friend gets the Winter Fuel Payments – can I get them?

If you have received, or would have been eligible for Winter Fuel Payment (WFP) in the UK, you may be able to receive it when you move to Spain. The WFP began in January 1998. This means that if you left the UK before 5 January 1998 you will not be able to claim for WFP. The WFP is usually paid automatically to people receiving a UK State Pension. If you are not of UK State Pension age, but believe that you are entitled to WFP you will need to complete a claim form for the first year to claim WFP outside the UK.
There are some older British migrants who are ‘Winter Swallows’ and spend for example, 4 to 6 months in Spain. As they may have a residence in the UK and are already in receipt of WFP they will continue to receive it. If in doubt about your entitlement to WFP contact the Winter Fuel Payments Centre in Cardiff – telephone 02920428676.

Can I get financial help from the British Consulate?

The British Consulate in Malaga has provided the following information. The Consulate cannot pay bills, or give you money (in very exceptional circumstances they may lend you some money from public funds, which you will have to pay back.)

Who can help me if I am in financial difficulties?

This chapter began with the observation that some older UK retirees could be in financial straits. Unfortunately, Age Care Association cannot provide finance to persons in need. Nonetheless, depending on previous careers and occupations there are some charities and groups able to help with emergency payments. For example the Royal British Legion, the Royal Air Force Association and other armed forces charities are sympathetic to pleas for assistance from ex-service members and their dependents. There are also some trade unions and craft organisations that may be able to help. If you feel that you require some financial help and are not sure what to do, consult the local free English newspapers for details of Armed Forces Organisations. You could also contact a relative or friend in the UK and ask them to go to a public library to consult books on charities. They contain a good deal of information about charitable sources willing to consider applications for financial help. For additional information contact our Help Lines 691761088 or 655903182.