Thousands of state pensioners aged 80 and above could be eligible for an additional £5,280 per year from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This extra payment, known as the Over-80 Pension, ensures that pensioners receive a minimum weekly income of £101.55, even if they haven’t made enough National Insurance (NI) contributions.
However, many eligible pensioners are unaware of this benefit, with an estimated 37,000 people missing out. If you or a loved one is 80 years or older, here’s everything you need to know about qualifying and applying for the Over-80 Pension.
What Is the Over-80 Pension?
The Over-80 Pension, also called the Category D Non-Contributory State Pension, is a special financial support program for elderly pensioners who:
- Receive little or no basic State Pension
- Are aged 80 or over
- Do not have enough National Insurance contributions to qualify for a full State Pension
This scheme tops up weekly payments to a maximum of £101.55 per week, ensuring older pensioners have a minimum income level.
Who Is Eligible for the Over-80 Pension?
To qualify for this payment, you must:
- Be at least 80 years old
- Live in the UK or meet residency requirements
- Receive less than £101.55 per week in basic State Pension
- Have been living in the UK for at least 10 years out of the 20 years before your 80th birthday
Who Can Apply Even Without National Insurance Contributions?
Even if you haven’t made enough National Insurance contributions, you may still qualify for the Over-80 Pension. This is because it is non-contributory, meaning it does not depend on how much NI you’ve paid.
How Much Can You Get?
If you are already receiving a basic State Pension of less than £101.55 per week, you can apply for a top-up to reach this amount.
For example:
- If you receive £43 per week, the Over-80 Pension will add £58.55 to bring your total to £101.55 per week.
- If you receive no State Pension at all, you could receive the full £101.55 per week.
Annual Increase: This extra payment means pensioners can receive up to £5,280 per year.
How to Apply for the Over-80 Pension
To claim this additional pension:
- Contact the DWP Pension Service at 0800 731 0469
- Fill out a claim form, available on the GOV.UK website
- Provide necessary documents, including:
- Proof of age and identity
- Details of your current State Pension payments (if any)
- Proof of UK residency history
Important: If you already receive benefits, you must declare the Over-80 Pension as taxable income, as it may affect other income-related benefits.
Will the Over-80 Pension Affect Other Benefits?
Yes, the Over-80 Pension is classified as taxable income, which could impact:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Support
- Other income-related benefits
It is advisable to check with the DWP to understand how it might affect your existing benefits.
The Over-80 Pension provides crucial financial support to thousands of elderly pensioners, ensuring they receive at least £101.55 per week. However, an estimated 37,000 eligible pensioners may be missing out on this extra £5,280 per year simply because they haven’t applied.
If you or someone you know is over 80 and receiving a low State Pension, check eligibility and apply today by contacting the DWP Pension Service.
Call 0800 731 0469 to apply now!
FAQ’s
What is the Over-80 Pension?
The Over-80 Pension is a non-contributory State Pension for those aged 80 or older who receive less than £101.55 per week in basic State Pension. It ensures they get a minimum weekly income.
Who is eligible for the Over-80 Pension?
You must be at least 80 years old, live in the UK, receive less than £101.55 per week in State Pension, and have lived in the UK for at least 10 of the last 20 years before your 80th birthday.
How much extra can I receive from the Over-80 Pension?
Eligible pensioners can receive up to £101.55 per week, amounting to an extra £5,280 per year if they currently receive little or no State Pension.
How do I apply for the Over-80 Pension?
You can apply by calling the DWP Pension Service at 0800 731 0469 or by filling out a claim form on the GOV.UK website.
Does the Over-80 Pension affect other benefits?
Yes, the Over-80 Pension is taxable income and may affect other income-related benefits such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Support.DWP Giving Pensioners an EXTRA £101 a Week – But Thousands Are Missing Out!
