The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that state pensioners born before 6 April 1936 can claim an extra £105.70 per week from the Over 80 Pension starting in the 2025–2026 tax year. This is a crucial support for pensioners aged 80 and over, especially those who receive little or no basic State Pension.
This additional benefit, known as the Over 80 Pension, ensures no one aged 80+ lives on extremely low retirement income.
Who Can Claim the Over 80 Pension
To qualify for this extra £105.70 weekly payment, pensioners must meet the following criteria:
- Must be aged 80 or over
- Must be born before 6 April 1936
- Must be living in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on their 80th birthday or when they apply
- Must have lived in the UK for at least 10 years out of the last 20 years
- Must be receiving less than £105.70 per week in basic State Pension, or none at all
- Not based on National Insurance contributions
If you reached State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016, you cannot get this Over 80 Pension.
How Much You Could Receive
The Over 80 Pension tops up your weekly income to £105.70. If you currently receive less than that, you get the difference added to your pension.
| Your Current Basic State Pension | Top-Up from DWP | Total Weekly Pension |
|---|---|---|
| £0.00 | £105.70 | £105.70 |
| £43.00 | £62.70 | £105.70 |
| £80.00 | £25.70 | £105.70 |
| £105.70 or more | £0.00 | No top-up |
This means even if you receive only £43 a week, DWP will add £62.70 to bring you up to £105.70 weekly.
How to Apply for the Over 80 Pension
Applying is simple and can be done through the Pension Service or your local Jobcentre Plus.
Steps to apply:
- Request an Over 80 Pension claim form from the Pension Service.
- Complete the form with proof of age, residence, and current pension details.
- Submit your application up to 3 months before your 80th birthday.
This allows the DWP to start payments as soon as you turn 80, ensuring you don’t miss out.
Living Abroad? What You Need to Know
You may also claim the Over 80 Pension if you:
- Live in or are moving to an EEA country or Switzerland
- Are a UK national and meet the 10 out of 20 years UK residence rule
However, you must check specific pension arrangements with the International Pension Centre to confirm your eligibility while living abroad.
Why This Matters for Older Pensioners
Many older pensioners, especially women who did not pay full National Insurance contributions, miss out on a full State Pension. The Over 80 Pension ensures no one aged 80+ has to survive on extremely low income.
It is not means-tested and not linked to NI contributions, making it accessible to thousands who previously thought they were ineligible.
The DWP’s Over 80 Pension offers a £105.70 weekly boost to pensioners born before 6 April 1936 who receive little or no State Pension.
If you are turning 80 soon or already 80+, it’s vital to apply at least 3 months before your birthday. This benefit can significantly improve your financial security during later life.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Over 80 Pension?
Anyone aged 80 or over, born before 6 April 1936, and getting less than £105.70 per week in basic State Pension.
Does it depend on National Insurance contributions?
No, eligibility for this pension is not based on National Insurance contributions.
When should I apply for the Over 80 Pension?
You can apply up to 3 months before your 80th birthday through the Pension Service or Jobcentre Plus.
