Good news for pensioners over 80: The UK government has several schemes for retirees aimed at providing financial security to the elderly. For pensioners with low incomes or those without a Basic State Pension, these schemes from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can significantly ease the cost of living.
Bonus payments for those earning less than £106
If you are receiving a State Pension and your weekly income is less than £106, you can receive an additional payment from the DWP. This requires that you have contributed to National Insurance (NI) for at least 10 years and have reached the UK government’s minimum retirement age (66 for both men and women).
Over 80 Pension
Pensioners aged 80 or over who are not receiving a Basic State Pension or whose pension income is less than £105.70 per week can claim the “Over 80 Pension.” This scheme guarantees them an income of up to £105.70 per week.
Importantly, this benefit is not based on National Insurance contributions. This means that even those who have not made sufficient NI contributions can benefit from this scheme. However, if you reached State Pension age on or after April 6, 2016, you will not be eligible for this scheme. In such cases, the New State Pension will apply.
Eligibility Conditions
To claim the “Over 80 Pension,” you must meet these conditions:
You must be 80 years of age or over.
You must have lived in the UK for at least 10 out of 20 years (not necessarily continuously).
On your 80th birthday or the date of claim, you must have normally resided in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar.
Your Basic State Pension is either nonexistent or less than £105.70 per week.
Pension Credit: Additional support of up to £4,300
Low-income pensioners may also be eligible for Pension Credit. This increases your weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level:
Single pensioner: £227.10 per week
Couples: £346.60 per week
In addition, you may also receive the following additional benefits with Pension Credit:
Assistance with NHS dental treatment, spectacles, and hospital travel costs.
Council Tax exemption.
Free TV license for those aged 75 or over.
Discounts on the Royal Mail Redirection Service.
Heating bill assistance (Warm Home Discount, Winter Fuel Payment).
Housing Benefit if you rent a home.
Also Read: Minimum private pension age raised from 55 to 57: Millions will now have to wait longer
How to claim?
You can claim the “Over 80 Pension” from your local Jobcentre Plus or Pension Service.
You can apply up to three months before your 80th birthday. A claim form can be obtained by calling 0800 731 7898.
You can claim Pension Credit up to four months before reaching State Pension age. Applications can be made by phone, post, or online.
To check your eligibility, you can use the Pension Credit calculator on the GOV.UK website or contact the helpline on 0800 99 1234.