However, I went on the DWP site and it gave me a forecast of £157.15 at age 68 with no mention of COPE.
My NI history shows 40 years of contributions with 32 of those (82 - 2014) in the RAF with no indication of reduced payments or being opted out.
Confused? I am.
Crab,
I'm in a very similar position. I have seen my forecast numerous times. Go onto the Gov. web site and in big figures it gives me a forecast of £157.15.
However, as Jon says, there is a link at the bottom of the page.
It reveals my COPE is £65 per week.
Like so many things this, and past governments have done, it's all smoke and mirrors.