Document Requirements for Accessing Your Pension Pot

When you request to access your pension pot, you’ll need to provide valid identification and proof of address. Below is a guide to the documents we accept—and those we cannot accept—to help make your claim process as smooth as possible.

1. Identification Documents

Accepted (photographic ID):

• Driving licence (EU, international, or UK full/provisional)
• ID card (EU national, MoD, or Home Office residence permit)
• Passport (current UK or international)

Not Accepted

• Blue Badge parking permit
• Local Elector Card
• HM Funded Travel Card
• ID Card (PASS)
• Passport (expired)
• Student cards (NUS or international)

2. Bank Statement

You must provide a personal bank statement for the account you want your pension pot paid into. The statement must:

• Clearly show your full name, address, and account number
• Be dated within the last 3 months

Not Accepted

• Any bank letters other than a statement

3. Proof of Address

You need one document from the accepted list below, showing your current residential address. Documents must be dated within the last 3 months (unless otherwise stated).

Accepted

• Bills & Statements:
• Car tax bill
• Council tax bill (current tax year)
• Home phone / internet provider bill (e.g. Virgin, Sky)
• Mortgage statement
• Pension statement (personal pension only)
• Utility bills (electric, gas, water)

• Official Letters & Certificates:
• Communities Directorate letter
• Driving licence (UK/provisional) – only if not used as your photo ID
• Insurance schedule (car, home, landlord)
• DWP official letter (benefits only)
• DBS certificate
• HMRC coding notice, tax bill, or official letter
• Loan confirmation letter
• P45 or P60 (last tax year)
• Payslip
• State Pension payment letter
• Tenancy agreement

Not Accepted

• Credit card bill
• Mobile phone bill
• TV licence
• General letters from energy suppliers
• NHS

Updated on: 17/05/2025