Thousands of pensioners could receive extra money once they turn a certain age. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is handing out an extra £5,280 per year to people who claim the State Pension once they turn 80.
The payment, known as the over 80 pension, brings their weekly income up to the full basic State Pension of £108.55. As reported by Chronicle Live, claimants must be receiving either less than £101.55 a week in basic State Pension or none at all to be eligible.
Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert website says: “It’s estimated that 37,000 people could fall into this category. Usually the State Pension you get depends on your national insurance contributions.
“But if you’re aged 80 or over and get less than £85 a week in State Pension, you may be eligible for the little-known ‘category D’ non-contributory State Pension. This type of pension is designed to ensure that people over 80 receive a certain minimum pension, even if you haven’t made enough national insurance contributions.”
Those with an insufficient National Insurance record to claim the pension might be eligible for the over-80s pension. If a person does not receive the basic State Pension or receives less than £101.55 a week, they may claim the difference up to this amount.
For example, if you’re 80-years-old and receive a basic State Pension of £43 per week, your pension could be boosted by £58.55 to £101.55 weekly. To claim, you need to contact the DWP’s Pensions Service on 0800 7310 469.
The over 80 pension is considered taxable income, which may impact other benefits you’re receiving. You must declare the over 80 pension as income if you’re claiming other income-related benefits.
