Key Points
- State, occupational and private pensions can all count.
- Pensions from the UK or from overseas are accepted.
- The applicant's pension counts as well as the sponsor's.
- Pension income combines with most other sources, including savings.
What counts
The gross annual income from a State Pension, an occupational pension or a private pension counts, whether paid by a UK or a foreign provider. The pension must already be in payment.
Evidence
- Official documents from the pension provider or the relevant government body confirming the entitlement and the amount
- At least one personal bank statement from the last twelve months showing the pension being paid
When the pension is not enough
A pension below the threshold can be combined with employment income, non-employment income such as rent, or cash savings above £16,000.
Lump sums
A lump sum taken from a pension is treated as cash savings once it is in your account, subject to the usual holding rules.
Official Sources
This page is general information, not legal advice. The rules and figures are set by the Home Office and can change.