State Pension - protected payment?

[billyt]

Hi,

I know, First World question.

I've just received a letter giving me the start date for my state pension. I knew it was £203.85 but the letter also lists a 'Protected payment' of £6.41.

Just curious as to what this is. I've searched but not finding clear info.

I think this goes back to the 2016 changes. On 1 April 2016 your entitlement to the old state pension was calculated. In your case this calculation must have been full old state pension plus £6.41 more. The £6.41 was ring fenced as a protected payment.

I assume you continued to pay NI so became eligible for the full new state pension plus the protected pension.

https://www.gov.uk/new-state-pension/how-its-calculated

@Premiumbondbaby

Thanks. It's all extra money in the bank but was just curious why.