In a move to provide additional support for the elderly, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering a significant financial boost to those aged 80 and over. Known as the “over-80 pension,” eligible individuals could receive up to £422.80 per month, helping to increase their financial security.
As part of the government’s ongoing commitment to assist older citizens, this pension top-up ensures that those with a basic State Pension of £105.70 per week or less, or who do not receive a basic State Pension at all, can claim a supplementary payment.
Eligibility and Benefits of the Over-80 Pension
The over-80 pension provides an important lifeline to pensioners whose existing State Pension falls short of £105.70 per week. According to the DWP, pensioners can claim the difference between what they currently receive and the full basic State Pension. This top-up is not a separate payment but is added to the pensioner’s existing State Pension, and is typically paid every four weeks.
For example, an individual receiving £43 per week as part of their basic State Pension could be entitled to an additional £62.70 per week, bringing their total weekly pension up to £105.70. This adds up to £422.80 each month. According to the DWP, such payments provide a substantial increase in financial support, boosting annual pension income by as much as £5,496.40. The scheme is available to pensioners who meet specific residency requirements and who are aged 80 or over.
The over-80 pension is designed to ensure that older pensioners, who may have limited or no State Pension, are not left financially vulnerable. It is especially beneficial for those who may not have had the opportunity to build up sufficient National Insurance contributions throughout their working life. Unlike other pension schemes, eligibility for the over-80 pension is not tied to the individual’s National Insurance record, making it accessible to a broader group of pensioners.
How to Apply and Key Restrictions
To apply for the over-80 pension, individuals must contact their local Jobcentre Plus or call the Pension Service on 0800 731 7898. According to the DWP, applicants can submit their claim up to three months before their 80th birthday or any time after reaching that age. However, the scheme is subject to specific residency conditions: pensioners must have lived in the UK for at least 10 years within a 20-year period, or have been ordinarily resident in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on their 80th birthday.
It is also important to note that the over-80 pension is classified as taxable income. As a result, any other benefits or financial support that the individual may be receiving could be affected. Furthermore, those who reached State Pension age after April 6, 2016, are not eligible for the over-80 pension. The payment is only available to individuals who were born before that date, which means the scheme primarily supports those who are already well into their later years.
With an upcoming increase in the weekly payment rate from £105.70 to £110.75 in April 2025, the over-80 pension will continue to play a crucial role in ensuring that older pensioners are not left behind financially. While the eligibility requirements are stringent, the financial relief it provides can make a significant difference in the quality of life for many pensioners across the UK.
