Why Pension and Discharge Records Matter?

WWI pension and discharge records are a rich source of personal and military detail about British soldiers who were wounded, fell ill, or left the army under special conditions. These documents often contain information not found in other WWI records, especially for men whose service files were lost in the 1940 Blitz.

This guide explains what these records are, where to find them, and how to interpret their terminology and forms.

What Are WWI Pension Records?

After World War I, many British soldiers who were injured, became ill, or were otherwise unable to continue service received a military pension. These pensions were administered by the Ministry of Pensions and the Chelsea Hospital.

 

Two main types of records survive:

  • WO 364: Pension Record Cards and Ledgers (also known as "unburnt series")

  • PIN 26 and PIN 82: Ministry of Pensions Files (housed at The National Archives)

Who Appears in Pension and Discharge Records?

These records typically cover:

  • Soldiers discharged due to wounds, disability, or sickness

  • Men granted pensions for war-related conditions

  • Widows and dependents claiming posthumous benefits

Some soldiers may appear only in these pension files and not in service records, especially if their full file was destroyed during WWII.

 

Key Forms in Pension and Discharge Records

1. Medical Board Reports

  • Assessments of wounds or illnesses

  • Fitness grading (e.g. B2, C1)

  • Decision on discharge or continued service

2. Discharge Papers (Army Form B.2079)

  • Date and reason for discharge

  • Conduct assessments

  • Service summary and medical status

3. Pension Award Sheets

  • Details of weekly allowance

  • Description of disability and percentage rating (e.g., 40% disablement)

  • Pension duration (temporary or permanent)

4. Dependents’ Pension Forms

  • For widows or children of deceased soldiers

  • Contain address, age, and relationship information

Key Abbreviations & Terms Explained

SWB: Silver War Badge (given to discharged men)

A.F.B. 2079: Army Form B.2079 - Discharge Certificate

B.P.W: Boarded Permanently Unfit for War Service

D.A.H: Disordered Action of the Heart

V.D.H: Valvular Disease of the Heart

C.C.S: Casualty Clearing Station

Chelsea Board: Pensions authority evaluating cases

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