**DWP Identifies Key Groups Who Could Receive £105 Weekly Support as Thousands Miss Out**
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has recently highlighted specific groups of elderly people who may be eligible for a valuable weekly payment of £105.70, as new figures reveal that a significant number of pensioners are not claiming financial support to which they are entitled. This government initiative is designed to ensure that older citizens, particularly those aged over 80 with little or no Basic State Pension income, are not left struggling with day-to-day expenses.
In the latest official statistics, the DWP reports that the State Pension is now a regular source of income for approximately 13 million people nationwide. Eligibility for the standard State Pension remains tied to the government-set retirement age of 66, in addition to having completed at least ten years of National Insurance contributions. Nevertheless, the government has established a separate provision—the “Over 80 Pension”—which specifically targets residents aged 80 and above whose State Pension falls below £105.70 per week, or who do not receive it at all.
The Over 80 Pension is not dependent on National Insurance history but does require applicants to meet strict residency regulations. Recipients must have lived in the UK for at least ten out of the last twenty years, including the day before their 80th birthday or any subsequent date relevant to their claim. Additionally, claimants must have been ‘ordinarily resident’ in the UK, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar on their 80th birthday or when making their claim. Notably, this payment is not available to those who reached State Pension age on or after 6 April 2016, as they instead fall under the New State Pension system.
Officials are urging older residents to check their eligibility, especially in light of government research showing that around 760,000 UK pensioners are absent from benefit rolls despite being entitled to support. This is a striking figure when considering that nearly 1.4 million elderly Britons—including over 125,000 north of the border—are currently benefiting from means-tested support such as Pension Credit, which could be worth over £4,300 in the year 2025/26 alone.
A major reason cited for this shortfall is that some pensioners wrongly believe they do not qualify due to savings or property ownership. However, even a modest Pension Credit award of £1 per week unlocks access to a host of other benefits, ranging from help with housing and council tax to support for utility bills and even free NHS dental treatment. For many, these “passport” benefits can provide a life-changing lift to their standard of living.
Pension Credit is specifically designed to supplement income for those of State Pension age living in Great Britain on a low income. It guarantees a minimum weekly income of £227.10 for single pensioners and £346.60 for couples, although this can increase for those living with disabilities or caring responsibilities. The application process has been streamlined: claimants can check eligibility using the official Pension Credit calculator at GOV.UK, or alternatively make a phone application by calling 0800 99 1234. Charities and independent advice agencies, such as Age UK and Citizens Advice, also stand ready to support applicants through the often-daunting process.
It is essential to be aware of significant legislative changes affecting “mixed age couples” where one partner is above and one below State Pension age. Under newer rules, these couples are now classified as of “working age” and cannot access Pension Credit or certain age-related housing benefits until both reach qualifying age—representing a notable shift from previous arrangements.
Those considering an application will need to provide detailed information about their finances, benefits, and residency status. The online calculator will also request details concerning pensions, savings, employment earnings, and whether any carer’s allowance is in place. Inputting this data will generate an instant estimate, allowing pensioners or their families to plan accordingly. Furthermore, claims for Pension Credit can be backdated for up to three months, meaning those who delay applying might still be eligible for past payments.
For those approaching their 80th birthday, the Over 80 Pension offers a lifeline. Application forms are available from local Jobcentre Plus offices or can be ordered directly from the Pension Service, with claims accepted from three months before the applicant turns 80. While the process may seem complex, comprehensive governmental guidance is available online, and expert assistance can be sought from trusted organisations.
The DWP’s message remains clear: older people should not assume they are ineligible for support. Given the rising cost of living and the pressure on household budgets, confirming eligibility for Pension Credit, the Over 80 Pension, and associated benefits could bring meaningful financial relief at a critical stage of life. For more information or support with an application, the government encourages direct contact via the Pension Credit helpline or through the online eligibility checker on GOV.UK.