DWP £100 per Week to help with everyday living costs – check if you’re eligible

For pensioners in the UK, extra financial support may be available through the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP). Pensioners aged over 80, who may not be receiving enough from their Basic State Pension, could be entitled to up to £106 per week to help with everyday living costs.

This additional financial support can make a significant difference in the lives of pensioners, ensuring they have the necessary funds to manage their daily expenses. In this article, we’ll explore how you can claim this extra help, who is eligible, and how it can benefit those over the age of 80.

Over 80 Pension: A Financial Lifeline

The over 80 pension is a weekly payment that can provide up to £105.70 for older individuals who are not receiving enough from their Basic State Pension. If a person’s Basic State Pension is less than this amount, the over 80 pension tops up the difference.

If they are not receiving any Basic State Pension, they can receive the full £105.70 per week.

This support is designed to help pensioners manage their daily living costs and is particularly useful for those who may be facing financial difficulties in their later years. For those over 80, the over 80 pension can be a much-needed financial lifeline.

Who Qualifies for the Over 80 Pension?

To qualify for the over 80 pension, individuals must meet specific criteria:

1. Age: You must be 80 or older.

2. Basic State Pension: If you are not receiving a Basic State Pension or if your weekly Basic State Pension is less than £105.70, you could be eligible for the over 80 pension.

3. Residency: You must have lived in the UK for at least 10 years out of the last 20 years, including the day before your 80th birthday or any day after.

4. Ordinarily Resident: You must be “ordinarily resident” in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on your 80th birthday or when you make your claim.

It’s important to note that eligibility for the over 80 pension is not based on National Insurance contributions. This makes it more accessible for those who may not have paid enough National Insurance during their working years.

Additional Support: Pension Credit

Low-income pensioners over 80 may also qualify for Pension Credit, which provides extra financial support. Pension Credit ensures that single pensioners receive at least £227.10 a week, while couples can receive £346.60.

This benefit can provide up to £4,300 in additional support over the course of the 2025/26 financial year. Pension Credit can be particularly helpful for those who are struggling financially and need extra support to meet their living costs.

How to Claim the Over 80 Pension

If you are over 80 and believe you are eligible for the over 80 pension, you can claim by following these steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the age, residency, and State Pension criteria outlined above.

2. Request a Claim Form: You can request a claim form from the Pension Service by calling 0800 731 7898 or from your local Jobcentre Plus.

3. Claim in Advance: You can claim up to three months before your 80th birthday.

4. Submit Evidence: Complete the claim form and provide any necessary supporting evidence of your condition and residency.

It’s important to claim as soon as you are eligible to avoid missing out on any financial support.

When You Cannot Claim the Over 80 Pension

If you reached the State Pension age on or after April 6, 2016, you are not eligible for the over 80 pension. Instead, you would be eligible for the New State Pension, which has different eligibility requirements and payment amounts.

The over 80 pension can be a crucial source of income for pensioners who are 80 years or older and either don’t receive the Basic State Pension or receive less than £105.70 per week. For those facing financial hardship, this additional support from the DWP can go a long way in helping manage daily living expenses.

Additionally, low-income individuals over 80 may be eligible for Pension Credit, which further boosts income and helps with financial stability. Be sure to check your eligibility and claim the support you are entitled to before it’s too late.

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