Ally
In the UK, millions of pensioners rely on the support provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help with their everyday living expenses.
The DWP’s latest figures reveal that 13 million pensioners currently receive the State Pension, and for some, there may be additional support available in the form of weekly payments that can reach up to £106.
This article covers everything you need to know about the financial help available for eligible pensioners, including State Pension, over 80 pension, and Pension Credit.
Let’s dive into the details of who qualifies, how much they can receive, and how to claim these benefits.
Who Qualifies for Up to £106 a Week from DWP?
The State Pension is available to individuals who have reached the State Pension age of 66 for both men and women, and have contributed to National Insurance (NI) for at least 10 years.
However, there are additional financial aids available for pensioners over the age of 80.
Over 80 Pension
For those who are over 80 and either do not receive the Basic State Pension or receive less than £105.70 per week, they may be entitled to extra financial assistance. This is commonly referred to as the “over 80 pension”.
The over 80 pension provides £105.70 weekly for pensioners who:
- Do not receive Basic State Pension at all, or
- Receive less than £105.70 per week from their State Pension.
This payment helps cover the rising living costs for pensioners who are most vulnerable. Additionally, those who meet certain income criteria can also receive Pension Credit, which can add up to an additional £4,300 over the 2025/26 fiscal year.
How to Claim the Over 80 Pension
To claim the over 80 pension, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria. These include:
- You must be 80 years old or older.
- You must not receive the Basic State Pension, or your Basic State Pension is less than £105.70 per week.
- You need to have been resident in the UK for at least 10 years out of 20, including the year before you turned 80 or any day after.
- You must be “ordinarily resident” in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar when you turn 80 or on the date you make your claim.
If you reached the State Pension age after April 6, 2016, you are instead eligible for the New State Pension. In this case, the over 80 pension does not apply to you.
When to Apply for the Over 80 Pension
The earliest you can apply for the over 80 pension is three months before your 80th birthday. To make a claim, you can request the claim form from the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus, or by calling 0800 731 7898.
Key Information
| Pension Type | Amount per Week | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Basic State Pension | Varies (based on contributions) | Minimum 10 years National Insurance contributions |
| Over 80 Pension | £105.70 | Over 80, not receiving Basic State Pension, or receiving less than £105.70 |
| Pension Credit | £227.10 (single) / £346.60 (couple) | Must meet the qualifying age for Pension Credit |
Pension Credit
Pension Credit is a tax-free benefit designed to ensure that pensioners who have limited income are supported. The benefit provides the following support:
- Single pensioners can receive at least £227.10 per week.
- Couples can receive at least £346.60 per week.
How to Apply for Pension Credit
Applying for Pension Credit can be done quickly online via the Pension Credit calculator on the GOV.UK website. This allows pensioners or their loved ones to estimate how much they may be eligible to receive.
Alternatively, pensioners can call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234. Lines are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, and help is available to make the claim.
Pensioners who are 80 or older and meet the eligibility criteria can receive up to £106 per week from the DWP to support their daily living costs.
The over 80 pension and Pension Credit are valuable financial aids that can help ensure seniors have the necessary funds to manage their expenses.
FAQs
What age do I need to be to claim the over 80 pension?
You must be 80 years old or older to claim the over 80 pension.
How do I know if I qualify for Pension Credit?
You must have reached the Pension Credit qualifying age, which is the same as the State Pension age, and live in Great Britain.
How can I apply for the over 80 pension?
You can apply by getting a form from your local Jobcentre Plus or the Pension Service, or by calling 0800 731 7898.