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.

The news come not long after the announcement made as part of the Autumn Budget last year, that from 6 April 2027, most unused pension funds and lump sum death benefits will be included within the value of a person’s estate for Inheritance Tax purposes. Further information is awaited about the detail of this change; its implementation and operation, and updates will be provided in due course, once the details are confirmed. Read on to find out who could benefit from your Uniper pension benefits, and how to have your say on where the money goes when you die…

Who can benefit from my pension?

For more information on your death benefits, please take a look at the following documents:

• the Member Guides for members of the Electricity Supply Pension Scheme (ESPS)
• the UPP Summary and the UPP Guide for members of the Uniper Pension Plan (UPP)

Can I have a say in where the money goes?

Who gets any lump sum payable is at the discretion of the Trustee.

You can let them know who you think the lump sum should be paid to by making an Expression of Wish.

While the Trustee does not have to follow your Expression of Wish, it is an important piece of information that it will consider.

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

An Expression of Wish only applies to any cash lump sum that may be paid out. It does not affect who can get a pension from the Scheme if you die. This is typically limited to a spouse, children or other dependant.

If you joined the ESPS in or before 1986, any cash lump sum may automatically go to your estate if you don’t complete and Expression of Wish to tell the Trustee who this should be paid to. So, it’s important to look into it if you’re unsure.

Pease check the following guides for further details :

• the Member Guides for members of the Electricity Supply Pension Scheme (ESPS)
• the UPP Summary and the UPP Guide for members of the Uniper Pension Plan (UPP) Section 

How to make/change an Expression of Wish

It is quickest and easiest to make or change an Expression of Wish online. Simply log in to your online account via the below links and follow a few short steps. It should only take a few minutes. If you haven't got an online account, you can register now:

• ESPS members register here or log in here
• UPP members register here or email the Fidelity service centre at pensions.service@fil.com to register, or log in here
  

Alternatively, you can download and print an Expression of Wish form using the below links. Once complete, please return it to the address specified on each form.

• ESPS Expression of Wish
• UPP Expression of Wish
  

ESPS members can also find out more about who you can add to your Expression of Wish, and how, on the Expression of Wish pages on your member website.

UPP members can find more information in the UPP Summary and the UPP Guide.

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

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