Pension Forecast Explained

There are two forecasts worth having before you leave, and people often only get one.

Your armed forces pension forecast comes from Defence Business Services. It tells you what your AFPS benefits are worth, on which scheme, and when you can take them. This is the one that affects your immediate finances on discharge.

Your State Pension forecast comes from GOV.UK and is based on your National Insurance record. It tells you what you'll get from the state at State Pension age, and flags any gaps in your contributions.

They're separate systems with separate contact routes, and one tells you nothing about the other. Get both.

Who is eligible?

Everyone serving or who has served can request an armed forces pension forecast from Defence Business Services. There's no minimum service to ask.

For a State Pension forecast you need a National Insurance number and to be 16 or over. Anyone who has paid or been credited with contributions in the UK can check theirs.

The timing advice is the same for both: do it while you're still serving. A forecast is how you catch a wrong scheme, a missing period of service or an incorrect date, and all three are far easier to sort out before your discharge than after it.

What benefits does this provide?

  • Financial Planning: Offers a clear understanding of future pension income, aiding in effective financial planning and budgeting.
  • Retirement Readiness: Helps assess if current savings and investments are sufficient for desired retirement lifestyle.
  • Informed Decisions: Provides data to make informed decisions about retirement age and additional savings needs.
  • Benefit Maximisation: Identifies opportunities to maximise pension benefits, such as increasing contributions or adjusting retirement plans.
  • Removes the guesswork: You get a number to plan against instead of an assumption.
  • Adjustment Guidance: Highlights potential shortfalls, guiding necessary adjustments in savings or investment strategies.
  • Eligibility Verification: Confirms eligibility for various pension schemes and benefits, ensuring no entitlements are missed.
  • Tax Planning: Assists in understanding tax implications of pension income, aiding in efficient tax planning.

How do I apply?

  • Request it from Defence Business Services: Armed forces pension forecasts come from DBS, not from Veterans UK or the Jobcentre. Call 0800 085 3600 or email dbs-pensionshelp@dbspv.mod.uk.

  • Ask while you are still serving: A forecast is the moment to catch a wrong scheme, a missing period of service or an incorrect service date, and all three are far easier to fix before discharge.

  • Gather Information: Ensure you have your National Insurance number, personal details, and service history.

  • Visit the Government Website: Go to the official UK government website for pensions.

  • Access the service: Go to the pension forecast section. You may need to create or sign in to a government account first.

  • Complete the Application: Fill out the online form with your details. Double-check for accuracy.

  • Submit the Request: Once completed, submit your application. You should receive a confirmation.

  • Receive Your Forecast: The forecast will be sent to you, usually within a few weeks, detailing your expected pension.

  • Review and Plan: Use the forecast to plan your financial future, considering any additional savings or investments needed.

For further assistance, contact the Veterans UK helpline or visit a local veterans' support centre.

Common questions

How do you get an armed forces pension forecast?

Request one from Defence Business Services, on 0800 085 3600 or at dbs-pensionshelp@dbspv.mod.uk.

When should you ask for a pension forecast?

While you are still serving. A forecast is how you catch a wrong scheme, a missing period of service or an incorrect date, and all three are far easier to correct before discharge.

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Last reviewed 26 August 2026 by Brittany Belt, Co-founder and COO