The DWP pension for over 80s that most don’t know exists

The Department for Work and Pensions offers an “over-80 pension” top-up designed to guarantee a minimum income – yet it remains one of the most overlooked payments in the system.

If you are aged 80 or over and receive a low basic State Pension – or none at all – you could qualify for extra weekly payments.

This is worth up to £105.70 a week, or £5,759 a year.

Despite the size of the boost, awareness is low – meaning thousands of pensioners may be missing out.

Who can claim the DWP Over 80s Pension?

According to official guidance, you can claim if all of the following apply:

• You’re 80 or over
• You do not get basic State Pension or your basic State Pension is less than £105.70 a week
• You were resident in the UK for at least 10 years out of 20

You must also have been ordinarily resident in the UK, the Isle of Man or Gibraltar on your 80th birthday or when you claim, says the DWP.

Crucially, this payment is not based on your National Insurance record: “Your eligibility for the over 80 pension is not based on National Insurance contributions.”

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Many assume they are already receiving everything they are entitled to, or think it is means tested so they are not eligible.

It also increases each year, like other DWP pensions, which many may not realise.

Former pensions minister Steve Webb said support like this is essential: “These annual upratings are vital to protect pensioner living standards.”

If you or a relative is over 80 and on a low income, it may be worth checking entitlement.

With rising living costs, even a modest weekly increase could make a significant difference.