For pensioners in the UK, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) offers financial support to help with daily living expenses. This can be particularly helpful for those who may be struggling to make ends meet.
One such support available is the “over 80 pension,” which could provide eligible individuals with up to £106 a week. If you are over 80 or know someone who is, you could be entitled to extra support from the government to help with everyday costs.
This article will explain the eligibility criteria for this pension and other ways pensioners can claim financial help.
Understanding the Over 80 Pension
The over 80 pension provides a weekly sum of £105.70 for individuals who either do not receive a Basic State Pension or whose Basic State Pension is lower than this amount. It can also supplement their existing pension up to the £105.70 mark.
For pensioners aged over 80, this payment is an important source of extra income to support their daily living expenses.
Eligibility for the Over 80 Pension
To qualify for the over 80 pension, a person must meet specific criteria:
Age Requirement: You must be 80 years old or older.
Basic State Pension: If you don’t receive any Basic State Pension or receive less than £105.70 a week, you could be eligible for the over 80 pension.
Residency: You must have lived in the UK for at least 10 years out of the last 20 years. The 20-year period should include either the day before your 80th birthday or the day you claim the pension.
Ordinarily Resident: You must have been living in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on your 80th birthday, or when you claim the pension.
Unlike other state pensions, eligibility for the over 80 pension does not require National Insurance contributions, making it more accessible to a larger group of pensioners.
Pension Credit and Additional Support
In addition to the over 80 pension, low-income pensioners might also qualify for Pension Credit. This is a separate benefit that ensures single pensioners receive at least £227.10 a week, while couples get £346.60. Pension Credit is a tax-free benefit and can help supplement the income of pensioners living on a low income.
Eligibility for Pension Credit: To qualify, you must have reached the state pension age and live in Great Britain.
Additional Support: Pensioners can potentially claim over £4,300 in extra financial support during the 2025/26 fiscal year through Pension Credit.
For those who think they may be eligible for Pension Credit, there are several ways to apply. The easiest way is to use the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK. You can also call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234 to discuss eligibility and start a claim.
How to Claim the Over 80 Pension
Claiming the over 80 pension involves filling out a claim form, which can be obtained either from your local Jobcentre Plus or the Pension Service.
You can request a claim form by calling the Pension Service at 0800 731 7898. The earliest you can start your claim is three months before your 80th birthday, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
Pensioners over the age of 80 can receive much-needed financial help through the over 80 pension, which offers £105.70 per week to eligible individuals. For those living on a low income, there is also the opportunity to apply for Pension Credit, providing even more support.
To ensure you’re receiving the full financial assistance you’re entitled to, it’s important to check your eligibility and claim the benefits available to you. Whether it’s the over 80 pension or Pension Credit, these benefits can significantly improve the quality of life for pensioners, helping them with daily living costs.
FAQs
What is the over 80 pension?
The over 80 pension is a weekly payment of £105.70 for seniors aged 80 or older who either do not receive a Basic State Pension or receive less than £105.70 a week. It helps cover daily living expenses.
How do I know if I am eligible for the over 80 pension?
To qualify, you must be 80 or older, not receive any or receive less than £105.70 in Basic State Pension, and have lived in the UK for at least 10 years out of the last 20 years.
Can I claim Pension Credit as well as the over 80 pension?
Yes, if you qualify for both, you can receive both the over 80 pension and Pension Credit to help with daily living costs. Pension Credit ensures a minimum income for pensioners on low incomes.
How do I apply for the over 80 pension?
You can apply by contacting the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus. You can request a claim form by calling 0800 731 7898, and claims can be made up to three months before your 80th birthday.
What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a tax-free benefit for pensioners on a low income. Single pensioners can receive a minimum of £227.10 a week, while couples can get £346.60 a week.
