Teachers’ Pension Scheme (PO-3827)

Complaint summary

Mr Bax received an estimate of the benefits which might be secured by an incoming transfer payment, but which was in fact overstated. When informed after the transfer value was received of the correct amount of additional benefits, he complained that the respondents refused to grant him the earlier incorrect amount which he says he relied on.

Summary of the Ombudsman’s determination and reasons

The complaint is upheld against TP because its maladministration deprived Mr Bax of a proper choice as to whether to transfer. It would not be right however simply to require Mr Bax to be credited with the wrong benefits. He should be given the option of having the transaction unravelled at no cost to him.