Catalogue description Board of Inland Revenue and Board of Customs and Excise: Non Contributory Old Age Pensions, Registered Files

The Old Age Pensions Act 1908 allowed the payment of pensions to those aged 70 or over who could prove need. The executive work of awarding and assessing pensions under the act was carried out initially by the Board of Inland Revenue and after April 1909 by the Board of Customs and Excise. Certain of the board's staff were appointed pension officers by the Treasury and their duties were to investigate claims and keep pensions under review with regard to changes of circumstances.

The Widow's, Orphans' and Old Age Pensions Act 1925 introduced the first national contributory old age pensions for limited occupational groups, payable between the ages of 65 and 70 only and administered by the Ministry of Health. Contributory pensioners aged 70 or over became unconditionally entitled to a non-contributory pension. In 1929 the Ministry of Health assumed direct responsibility for such pensions. The Board of Customs and Excise remained responsible for other non-contributory pensions, including old age pensions granted under the Blind Persons Act 1920 and subsequent legislation.

In 1940 the Assistance Board was authorised to supplement non-contributory old age pensions in cases of need and in 1943 took over cases involving payment of both old age and supplementary pensions. On 1 April 1947 the Board of Customs and Excise relinquished to the Assistance Board its remaining responsibilities for non-contributory pensions.