Proof of life for pensions
If you receive a pension or benefits from another country, you may be asked to provide a Proof of Life document—also known as a Certificate of Existence or Pension Verification - as evidence that you are currently living.
We offer a validation service for British, Irish, Commonwealth, and European Union citizens who need to confirm their residency in the UK for overseas pension purposes.
We can offer this service by appointment only, and a fee of £14 is payable by card at the time of your visit. This service can be undertaken at either of the below offices, and can only be offered as a face to face appointment with the person named on the proof of life form:
- Wakefield Town Hall, Wood Street, Wakefield, WF1 2HQ
- Pontefract Town Hall, Bridge Street, Pontefract, WF8 1PG
How to book an appointment
To use this service, please contact the Register Office:
Phone: 0345 485 2888
Email: wakefieldregistrars@wakefield.gov.uk
What to bring
Each person named on the Proof of Life form must attend the appointment in person and bring:
- the Proof of Life form requiring validation
- valid photographic ID (e.g. passport, driving licence, or bus pass)
- card/contactless payment to pay the fee of £14 for this service
To confirm your address, please bring one of the following:
- a utility bill dated within the last 3 months
- a bank or building society statement/passbook dated within the last month
- a council tax bill dated within the last year
If the name on your form differs from your identification, you must also bring supporting documentation, such as:
- Deed Poll or Statutory Declaration
- Marriage Certificate(s)