Many people across the UK depend on the State Pension once they reach the retirement age. But did you know that if you’re over 80 and getting little or no pension, you might be able to get extra money from the government? Here’s a clear explanation of how it works and how you can claim it.
What Is the State Pension?
The State Pension is a regular payment from the UK government to people who have reached retirement age. You can get it if you’re 66 or older and have paid National Insurance (NI) for at least 10 years.
Right now, around 13 million people in the UK receive the State Pension. But if you’re over 80 and not getting the full amount—or none at all—you could be missing out on some helpful financial support.
The Over 80 Pension: Who Can Claim?
If you are 80 or older and not receiving any Basic State Pension, or getting less than £105.70 a week, you might qualify for the Over 80 Pension. This scheme offers up to £105.70 every week to help older citizens with their daily expenses.
To claim this pension, all of the following must be true:
You are 80 or older.
You receive no Basic State Pension or less than £105.70 per week.
You lived in the UK for at least 10 out of the past 20 years.
You were living in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on your 80th birthday or the day you apply.
Note: You cannot apply for the Over 80 Pension if you reached pension age after 6 April 2016, as you would fall under the New State Pension system.
What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is extra money from the government to help older people on a low income. About 1.4 million people are currently claiming it, but there are still over 700,000 eligible pensioners not taking advantage of it.
This benefit can add over £4,300 a year to your income. You might still qualify even if you have some savings or own your home. Even if you receive just £1 a week, it can open doors to more benefits like help with heating costs, council tax, and housing.
Current Pension Credit Payment Rates
Single pensioners: at least £227.10 per week
Couples: at least £346.60 per week
These amounts are guaranteed, and more support is given if you have a disability or are a carer.
Other Help You Can Get with Pension Credit
If you’re approved for Pension Credit, you can also get:
Help with rent or mortgage payments
Discount on Council Tax
Free NHS dental care and help with glasses or travel costs for hospital visits
Free TV licence (if you’re 75 or older)
Warm Home Discount and Winter Fuel Payments
Discount on Royal Mail redirection if you move home
Mixed-Age Couples: What Has Changed?
Since May 2019, couples where one partner is below State Pension age and the other is over it are now considered a “working age” couple. This means they are not eligible for Pension Credit until both partners reach State Pension age.
How to Check If You’re Eligible
You can use the Pension Credit calculator on the GOV.UK website. You’ll need information like:
Your and your partner’s date of birth
Where you live
Your income, savings, and benefits received
Whether you receive Carer’s Allowance
Pension amounts and employment details
The calculator will estimate how much Pension Credit you could get.
Who Can’t Use the Calculator?
The online calculator won’t work if:
You are deferring your State Pension
You own more than one property
You are self-employed
You have special housing costs not covered by mortgage or rent
How to Apply for Pension Credit
You can apply:
Online (if you already get your State Pension)
By phone: 0800 99 1234 (8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday)
By post
You can apply up to four months before reaching State Pension age, and backdate your claim up to three months if you were eligible during that time.
Make sure to have:
Your National Insurance number
Bank details
Information about income and savings
If you’re over 80 and not getting the full State Pension, or if you’re struggling with a low income, it’s worth checking if you qualify for the Over 80 Pension or Pension Credit. Many older people miss out on support they are entitled to because they assume they don’t qualify. Even a small amount of extra income could unlock other helpful benefits. Visit GOV.UK or call the Pension Credit helpline to find out what support is available for you or a loved one.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Over 80 Pension in the UK?
You are eligible for the Over 80 Pension if you are aged 80 or over, receive no Basic State Pension or less than £105.70 per week, lived in the UK for at least 10 out of the last 20 years, and were a UK resident on your 80th birthday or the day you claim.
What is the current amount provided by Pension Credit in 2025/26?
For the 2025/26 tax year, Pension Credit guarantees a minimum income of £227.10 a week for single pensioners and £346.60 for couples.
Can I still get Pension Credit if I have savings or own my home?
Yes, you may still qualify for Pension Credit even if you have some savings or own a home. Many pensioners wrongly believe they’re not eligible.
What other benefits come with Pension Credit?
Pension Credit can unlock extra benefits like help with housing costs, Winter Fuel Payment, Council Tax discounts, free NHS dental care, and a free TV licence if you’re over 75.
How can I check if I qualify for Pension Credit?
You can use the free Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK or call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234 to check your eligibility and potential entitlements.
