The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that thousands of older UK residents could be entitled to more than £100 in weekly support through the Over 80 Pension and Pension Credit.
With the rising cost of living affecting millions, these overlooked benefits are designed to ease financial burdens for low-income retirees. Whether you’re already claiming your pension or looking to understand what’s available as you turn 80, here’s what you need to know.
Who Qualifies for the Over 80 Pension?
The Over 80 Pension is a weekly top-up of £105.70 provided by the UK Government to individuals aged 80 or older. To qualify, you must:
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Be aged 80 or over
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Receive less than £105.70 per week in Basic State Pension, or none at all
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Have lived in the UK for at least 10 years out of the past 20 (not necessarily consecutively)
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Be ‘ordinarily resident’ in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on your 80th birthday or the date you apply
Importantly, this benefit is not based on your National Insurance record, making it especially valuable for those with limited NI contributions.
Note: If you reached State Pension age on or after April 6, 2016, you are ineligible for the Over 80 Pension due to the introduction of the New State Pension system.
How to Apply for the Over 80 Pension
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You can apply up to three months before your 80th birthday
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Request a claim form by calling the Pension Service at 0800 731 7898
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Alternatively, visit your local Jobcentre Plus for assistance
What About Pension Credit?
Even if you think your savings or home ownership disqualify you, Pension Credit could still be an option. A successful claim, even of just £1 a week, opens the door to several other forms of support.
Pension Credit Eligibility Criteria:
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You must be of State Pension age (currently 66)
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Live in Great Britain
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Have income below the thresholds:
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£227.10/week if single
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£346.60/week if in a couple
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This tax-free payment could offer over £4,300 in annual support during the 2025–26 financial year.
Additional Benefits Through Pension Credit
If you qualify, you could also get:
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Help with NHS costs (dental, glasses, hospital transport)
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Free TV licence if you’re over 75
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Council Tax discounts
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Winter Fuel Payment and Warm Home Discount
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Support for Mortgage Interest or Housing Benefit
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Royal Mail redirection discounts when moving home
These benefits help improve quality of life and reduce essential living costs for pensioners across the UK.
When and How to Claim Pension Credit
You can apply:
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Up to four months before reaching State Pension age
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At any time after, but backdated only up to three months
What You’ll Need to Apply:
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Your National Insurance number
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Details of income, savings, and investments
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Bank account information
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Proof of income on the date you’re requesting the claim to start (if backdating)
Apply Online:
Use the Pension Credit online application tool if you’ve already claimed your State Pension and have no children on your claim.
Final Words: Don’t Miss Out on What You Deserve
These benefits exist to help UK pensioners live comfortably in retirement. Whether you’re nearing 80, or struggling with low pension payments, checking your eligibility for the Over 80 Pension or Pension Credit can result in meaningful financial relief.
Don’t assume your income or savings disqualify you. Even a small award can give you access to broader government support programs.
FAQs
What is the Over 80 Pension?
It’s a weekly payment of £105.70 for pensioners aged 80+ who receive little or no Basic State Pension.
Am I eligible for the Over 80 Pension if I live abroad?
Only if you’re ordinarily resident in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on your 80th birthday or the date of your claim.
Does Pension Credit require NI contributions?
No, Pension Credit eligibility depends on income and age—not NI contributions.
Can I claim both Over 80 Pension and Pension Credit?
Yes, if you qualify for both, you may receive them concurrently.
How can I check if I qualify for Pension Credit?
Call 0800 99 1234 or use the official Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.