In a major development for thousands of UK women, the Scottish National Party (SNP) has proposed a £12,050 compensation package for women affected by State Pension age changes — commonly referred to as WASPI (Women Against State Pension Inequality) women.
This bold initiative aims to deliver long-overdue financial redress for the hardship caused by abrupt changes in pension rules.
Who Are WASPI Women?
WASPI women are those born between April 6, 1950, and April 5, 1960, who were impacted by the government’s decision to increase the State Pension age without sufficient notice. Many were left unprepared for retirement, having built financial plans around the original retirement age of 60.
The lack of proper communication regarding these changes led to widespread disruption in their financial and personal lives, with many struggling to make ends meet in their 60s.
What the SNP Is Offering
The SNP’s compensation package is significantly higher than other proposals being discussed. Here’s a breakdown of what’s on the table:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Compensation Amount | £12,050 lump sum per eligible woman |
| Eligibility | Women born between 6 April 1950 and 5 April 1960, affected by pension age hike |
| Notification Gap | Must have received little or no notice about the pension changes |
| Proof Required | Demonstrated financial hardship caused by the changes |
| Application Start Date | Expected to open in late summer 2025 |
| Payment Timeline | Processed within 18 months of application |
| Application Process | Online portal, simplified forms, and support services |
Why This Matters
This £12,050 payout is not just financial compensation — it’s a symbolic acknowledgment of the stress, loss, and financial uncertainty these women endured.
While other entities have proposed lower compensations (such as £1,000 to £3,000), the SNP’s plan sets the benchmark significantly higher, showing a commitment to genuinely resolving the inequality these women faced.
When Will Payments Begin?
Although the SNP’s proposal still needs legislative approval, planning is underway to launch the application system by late summer 2025. The goal is to ensure that eligible women receive their compensation within 18 months of submitting their claims.
The application will be designed to be as simple and accessible as possible, with an online system and optional in-person assistance for those who need help.
Other Compensation Discussions
Alongside the SNP’s proposal, here are some other ongoing discussions:
- A £3,000 payout already announced by the government for some WASPI women, expected between May–July 2025.
- A prior recommendation for £1,000–£2,950 by government watchdogs, still under debate.
The SNP’s £12,050 package, however, is currently the most ambitious plan and is gaining attention for its fairness and scale.
The SNP’s announcement of a £12,050 compensation for WASPI women is a major step toward justice. For those affected by sudden State Pension changes, this is more than just a financial boost — it’s validation after years of campaigning and being overlooked.
If you or someone you know falls into the WASPI category, prepare your documents and stay informed about application updates. This could be the relief many have been waiting for.
FAQs
How do I know if I’m eligible for the £12,050 WASPI payout?
If you were born between 6 April 1950 and 5 April 1960 and received little or no notice about changes to your State Pension age, you may qualify. Financial hardship must be demonstrated as part of the application.
When will the applications open?
The SNP aims to launch the application portal by late summer 2025. Updates will follow regarding the official start date.
Will I need to submit a lot of paperwork?
No. The process is expected to be simple, with minimal documentation required to prove eligibility and financial hardship.