Thousands of Britons could be missing out on crucial financial support, as many remain unaware of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Over 80 Pension.
If you or a loved one is eligible, this extra cash could make a significant difference—here’s how to check and claim.
With 12.9 million pensioners relying on the State Pension for their daily needs, financial support for older citizens remains a hot topic.
However, thousands of over-80s may not realise that they could be entitled to additional money, potentially increasing their weekly income.
The Over 80 Pension, alongside Pension Credit, provides vital financial assistance to elderly individuals, particularly those receiving little or no State Pension.
The Over 80 Pension is a government-backed scheme aimed at pensioners aged 80 and over who either receive a very low Basic State Pension or none at all. Unlike standard State Pensions, eligibility for this payment is not dependent on National Insurance contributions.
Instead, it is designed to ensure elderly citizens receive at least £101.55 per week, either as a full payment or as a top-up to their existing pension.
Who is eligible?
To qualify for the Over 80 Pension, applicants must meet the following criteria:
* Be aged 80 or over.
* Have been an ordinary resident in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar at the time of their 80th birthday or when applying.
* Receive a Basic State Pension of less than £101.55 per week or none at all.
* Have lived in the UK for at least 10 of the last 20 years (these years do not have to be consecutive).
Significantly, those who reached State Pension age on or after April 6, 2016, and qualify for the New State Pension, are NOT eligible for the Over 80 Pension.
Pension Credit: Additional Support for Low-Income Pensioners
For elderly individuals struggling to make ends meet, Pension Credit could provide an essential boost.
On average, this benefit offers an extra £4,200 per year, ensuring that single pensioners have a minimum weekly income of £218.15, while couples receive at least £332.95.
Even receiving as little as £1 per week in Pension Credit can open the door to a host of additional benefits, including:
* Help with NHS costs (dental treatment, glasses, hospital transport).
* Free TV licences for those aged 75 and over.
* Council Tax reductions and Housing Benefit for renters.
* Support for Mortgage Interest for homeowners.
* Heating cost assistance via the Warm Home Discount Scheme and Winter Fuel Payment.
How to apply for the Over 80 Pension
Claiming the Over 80 Pension is simple and could bring much-needed financial relief. Here’s how:
* Obtain an application form from your local Jobcentre Plus or Pension Service.
* Apply up to three months before your 80th birthday.
* Call the Pension Service helpline at 0800 731 7898 for assistance.
* Visit GOV.UK for further details and online resources.
For those checking their eligibility for Pension Credit, the Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK can provide quick answers. Alternatively, you can call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm) to apply.
