They're needed to pay a lump sum on death benefit if:
- the member has not completed a death benefit nomination form
- the member does not leave a spouse, civil partner, or qualifying Scheme partner who meets the criteria for payment of an adult dependant's pension
- the lump sum on death benefit is £5,000 or more
We must be sent an original or certified copy.
A declaration form must also be completed by the person named on the grant of probate or letter of administration. The form will be sent to the claimant when the lump sum on death is calculated.
If the grant of probate or letter of administration has been issued in a country outside of the United Kingdom (UK), this will only be accepted if it’s been resealed by an English court or where this is not possible in the UK.
You can read more information on the GOV.UK website or ask a solicitor for legal advice.