Pensions – always check the scheme rules

Never assume anything about how a pension scheme operates.  For example, if the scheme member dies while he is still married, does his widow get a widow’s pension?  It may depend on whether the couple have separated or are still living together.  Does pronouncement of decree nisi make a difference?  Or the issue of divorce proceedings?  There is no substitute for checking what the rules of the scheme (the current rules – they can change) say on the point.