A retired civil servant has been asked to return £25,000 after an error led to 11 years of pension overpayments. The 63-year-old, informed earlier this year that his benefits had been miscalculated since 2014, now faces significant financial strain and may need to return to full-time work.
He was told to repay the amount either in full or through instalments, and later warned of possible legal action if he did not begin payments. The miscalculation had influenced major life decisions, including taking early retirement. His monthly income has already been reduced, and further deductions are planned to recover the debt.
Thousands of pensioners have faced similar repayment demands due to administrative mistakes. Pension providers are legally required to recover overpayments, though debts can sometimes be reduced if claimants prove hardship.
The individual is still seeking clarity on how the error occurred and whether the updated pension figures are accurate, saying the situation has left him in severe financial distress.