Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme (PO-10427)

Ombudsman’s Determination

Outcome

Mrs N’s complaint against CSP is partly upheld, but there is a part of the complaint I do not agree with. To put matters right CSP should write off any outstanding overpayment and refund the amount it has already recouped, with interest. CSP should also pay Mrs N compensation. However, I do not believe that CSP should pay Mrs N the incorrect – and higher – pension benefits going forward.

My reasons for reaching this decision are explained in more detail below.

Complaint summary

Mrs N is unhappy because CSP incorrectly calculated her pension benefits. As a result, it overpaid her £6,598.32 between 1 September 2009 and 30 April 2012. CSP is now looking to recover the full overpayment, but Mrs N believes this is unfair as she has relied on the additional income in good faith.