Recent research by Aviva*, has revealed that almost 15% of UK adults don’t know who will get their pension benefits if they die before taking them. And a further 3% are worried they could go to their ex-partner, rather than the person they’re currently with.

Read on to find out who could benefit from your pension in the British Transport Police Force Superannuation Fund, and how to have your say on where the money goes when you die…

Who can benefit from my pension?

The benefits that can be paid when you die are set by the Scheme Rules and Management Committee. 

In general, there are 2 types of payment:

• a lump sum death benefit
• a pension for a spouse, children or other eligible dependant

Rules vary between sections, and depending on whether you’re still paying into the Fund, so please check your Member Guide for full details. This can be found in the ‘My Library’ area when you log in to your myFund account.

Can I have a say in where the money goes?

If a lump sum death benefit is payable under the Scheme Rules, then the Management Committee will decide who this should go to. 

You can let them know who you think the lump sum should be paid to by making a nomination.

While the Management Committee does not have to follow your nomination, it will be taken into account.

Making a nomination could also make the process quicker and may prevent delays in any lump sum being paid, which can have tax implications.

A nomination only applies to any cash lump sum that may be paid out. It does not affect who can get a pension from the Fund if you die. This is set out separately in the Scheme Rules, and is typically limited to a spouse, children or other dependant. Pease check your Member Guide for further details. This can be found in the ‘My Library’ area when you log in to your myFund account.

How to make/change a nomination

It is quickest and easiest to nominate online. Simply log in to your myFund account, select 'my nominations' and follow a few short steps. It should only take a few minutes. If you haven't got a myFund account, you can register now. 

Alternatively, you you can download and print a nomination form. Once complete, please return it to the administrator, Railpen, using the address on the form.

Please remember to check and update your nominations regularly, as the person or people you want to benefit may change over time and it’s important the Management Committee knows your wishes are up to date

Visit the reporting a member’s death page for more information about death benefits and how they are paid. 

*https://www.aviva.com/newsroom/news-releases/2025/05/do-you-know-who-will-inherit-your-pension/