While some reports have speculated about payments starting in November 2025, the more realistic window is mid to late 2026, after a key High Court hearing set for December 2025 and additional parliamentary processes.
What Is the £2,950 WASPI Proposal?
The figure of £2,950 comes from the Ombudsman’s Level 4 remedy recommendation, which is used to compensate for serious injustice but does not cover lost pension income. It is meant as recognition for the lack of sufficient notice many women received regarding the State Pension age changes, resulting in disruption to retirement planning.
It is essential to note that the Ombudsman cannot enforce payment. Only ministers and Parliament have the authority to approve and fund such a compensation scheme.
Current Status in 2025: Where Things Stand
As of late 2025, no formal compensation scheme has been approved. The UK Government has acknowledged the Ombudsman’s report but has not committed to any compensation plan.
A High Court hearing is scheduled for 9–10 December 2025 to assess whether the government’s inaction on the Ombudsman’s recommendation is lawful. Until that legal step is resolved, any further movement is paused.
Why November 2025 Payments Are Unlikely
Despite the circulation of November 2025 as a potential start date, this is unrealistic. Here’s why:
- No official scheme exists
- No funding has been set aside
- Legal hurdles remain, with the High Court case not due until December 2025
- Even if the court rules in favour of compensation, ministers would need to consult, design the scheme, allocate budget, and prepare implementation systems.
This chain of events means that any actual payments are unlikely before mid to late 2026.
How a Future Compensation Scheme Might Work
If ministers agree and Parliament passes the required legislation and budget, the easiest method of delivery would be an automatic, flat-rate payment to all eligible women.
Using DWP records and National Insurance data, the system could avoid complicated applications. A phased rollout might prioritise:
- Women already receiving the State Pension
- The oldest affected women
- Then other eligible groups
Government communication would need to clearly explain:
- Who qualifies
- What action is needed (if any)
- How to update personal details
- *Where to report missing payments
What Eligible Women Should Do Now
Though nothing is confirmed yet, preparation and caution are key. Here’s what you can do now:
1. Keep Your Records Up to Date
Ensure your name, address, and bank details are correct with DWP or HMRC to avoid future payment issues.
2. Follow Only Official Updates
Rely on gov.uk, DWP announcements, or Parliamentary updates—not social media or WhatsApp rumours.
3. Beware of Scams and Unofficial Claim Sites
There is no official registration process. Do not pay any fees or share your bank details with third-party websites or agents.
4. Document Your Case (Optional)
Keep copies of correspondence, letters, or records showing how you were affected. While not required now, such documents might be useful later.
5. Join Reliable Information Channels
Stay informed through trusted MPs, WASPI campaign groups, or verified charities.
Key Risks to Watch Out For
Unofficial Claim Handlers
Some websites are pretending to register people for compensation. There is no such registration list. Avoid them.
Phishing and Spoofed Messages
Do not trust unsolicited emails or texts requesting your bank or personal details. Always verify the source.
Misinformation
News articles may mislead with confident-sounding headlines about payment dates. Always check against official government sources.
Indicative Timeline If a Scheme Is Approved
| Timeframe | Expected Action |
|---|---|
| December 2025 | High Court hearing on government’s refusal to compensate |
| Early 2026 | Court ruling and ministerial review, potential announcements |
| Mid 2026 | Scheme design, budgeting, and technical system setup |
| Late 2026 | Start of phased payments, if all preparations go smoothly |
This is only a tentative timeline, and actual events will depend on both the legal outcome and political will.






