If you were born before 1946 and are aged 80 or over, you might be eligible for a significant top-up payment from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The ‘Over 80 Pension’ provides up to £110.75 per week to those who receive little or no basic State Pension.
Unlike the standard State Pension, this top-up does not depend on National Insurance contributions. However, to qualify, you must have been ordinarily resident in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar for at least ten years within the 20-year period leading up to your 80th birthday or the date you make the claim.
This payment is considered taxable income and might affect other benefits you receive. To be eligible, you must be aged 80 or over (born before 1946) and have a basic State Pension income that is less than £110.75 per week. If your basic State Pension is below this threshold, the DWP will top it up to that amount.
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For example, if your basic State Pension is £45 per week, you could receive an additional £65.75 from the Over 80 Pension, bringing your total weekly pension income up to £110.75.
You can obtain the claim form from your local Jobcentre Plus or the Pension Service. Claims can be made up to three months before your 80th birthday.