The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that some older people in the UK could receive up to £105 a week in ongoing support, with eligibility and claim timing becoming especially important this month. As living costs remain high, this confirmation has drawn attention from pensioners and those approaching retirement who are trying to understand what support is available and whether they qualify.
While headlines often suggest this is a brand‑new payment, the reality is more nuanced. The £105 figure reflects a combination of existing support aimed at older people with limited income, health needs, or care requirements. Understanding how this support works, who can claim, and why timing matters can make a significant difference to household finances.
This article explains what the £105 weekly support refers to, who may be eligible, how claims work, and why this month is important for some older people.
What the £105 weekly support refers to
The £105 weekly support figure is not a single standalone benefit.
Instead, it usually reflects:
- Core weekly benefit support
- Additional premiums or elements
- Long‑term assistance for older people
For many recipients, this support forms part of a wider benefits package.
Why the DWP has confirmed this now
The DWP regularly clarifies benefit rates and eligibility as part of routine updates.
Recent confirmation has focused on:
- Ongoing weekly support levels
- Ensuring eligible older people do not miss out
- Encouraging timely claims
This month matters because some claims are time‑sensitive.
Which benefit is most commonly linked to £105 a week
The £105 figure is most commonly associated with Pension Credit and related support.
Pension Credit is designed to:
- Top up income for pensioners
- Provide a minimum weekly income level
- Support those with limited savings or income
Additional elements can increase the total weekly amount.
Pension Credit explained simply
Pension Credit is a means‑tested benefit for people over State Pension age.
It has two main parts:
- Guarantee Credit
- Savings Credit
Not everyone receives both, but many qualify for at least one.
How the weekly amount is calculated
The weekly amount depends on:
- Income from pensions or work
- Savings and capital
- Household circumstances
For some older people, this calculation results in weekly support around £105.
Why some people receive exactly £105
The £105 figure often applies when:
- Income falls below the guaranteed minimum
- No additional earnings are present
- Housing or household factors are considered
Small differences in circumstances can change the amount.
Who is most likely to qualify
Those most likely to qualify include:
- Single pensioners on low income
- Couples with limited retirement income
- Older people not claiming all their entitlements
Many eligible people do not realise they qualify.
The role of savings in eligibility
Savings matter, but not in the way many assume.
Pension Credit:
- Allows savings up to certain levels
- Does not disqualify everyone with savings
- Uses a notional income calculation
Even people with modest savings may still qualify.
Why this month is important for claims
This month matters because:
- Claims can sometimes be backdated
- Delays may reduce entitlement
- Cold‑weather pressures increase urgency
Claiming sooner can protect income.
How backdating can affect payments
In some cases, Pension Credit claims:
- Can be backdated for a limited period
- Increase total support received
- Protect against missed weeks
Backdating rules depend on circumstances.
What happens if you delay claiming
Delaying a claim can mean:
- Losing weeks of support
- Missing linked benefits
- Reduced overall household income
This is why timely claims are encouraged.
Additional benefits linked to weekly support
Qualifying for weekly support can unlock other help.
This may include:
- Help with housing costs
- Council Tax support
- Free TV licence for over‑75s
- Cold weather and winter payments
The total value can be far higher than £105.
Why many older people do not claim
Pension Credit is under‑claimed across the UK.
Common reasons include:
- Assuming income is too high
- Not knowing about the benefit
- Thinking savings disqualify them
Awareness remains a major issue.
How health or disability can affect support
Health conditions can increase entitlement.
Extra support may apply if:
- Disability benefits are received
- Care needs exist
- Mobility is limited
This can raise weekly income beyond basic levels.
The difference between weekly support and lump sums
Weekly support:
- Provides ongoing income
- Helps with regular bills
- Offers stability
Lump‑sum payments are separate and occasional.
How payments are made
Weekly support is usually:
- Paid directly into a bank account
- Paid regularly
- Clearly labelled on statements
This helps with budgeting.
What documents are needed to claim
To claim, applicants usually need:
- National Insurance number
- Details of income and savings
- Bank account information
The process is designed to be manageable.
How to make a claim
Claims can be made by:
- Phone
- Online services
- Paper forms in some cases
Assistance is available if needed.
Support for those who find forms difficult
Older people who struggle with claims can:
- Ask for help from family
- Use independent advice services
- Get guidance from support organisations
Help is widely available.
Why official confirmation matters
Official confirmation reassures claimants that:
- Support levels are real
- Payments are ongoing
- Entitlement remains protected
It helps counter misinformation.
Common myths about £105 weekly support
Several myths circulate online.
These include:
- Everyone over a certain age gets it
- It replaces the State Pension
- It is a temporary payment
None of these are accurate.
How this support fits alongside the State Pension
Weekly support:
- Tops up the State Pension
- Does not replace it
- Is paid separately
Both can be received together.
What happens if circumstances change
Changes such as:
- Moving home
- Changes in income
- Household changes
should be reported to avoid issues.
Why regular reviews are normal
The DWP reviews claims to:
- Keep records accurate
- Adjust payments if needed
- Ensure fairness
Reviews are routine, not a warning sign.
The wider cost‑of‑living context
Older people face rising costs including:
- Energy bills
- Food prices
- Housing expenses
Weekly support helps cushion these pressures.
Why accuracy in headlines matters
Sensational headlines can:
- Create confusion
- Raise false expectations
- Cause unnecessary worry
Clear explanations help people act correctly.
What families and carers should know
Family members can:
- Encourage claims
- Help check eligibility
- Support the application process
This can make a big difference.
What to do if unsure about eligibility
If unsure:
- Check eligibility tools
- Seek advice
- Consider making a claim
It is better to check than miss out.
How long claims take to process
Processing times vary.
In general:
- Decisions take several weeks
- Backdated payments may apply
- Delays are communicated
Patience is often required.
Why claiming can improve overall wellbeing
Financial security supports:
- Better heating choices
- Reduced stress
- Improved quality of life
Support is about dignity as much as money.
Key points to remember
- £105 weekly support reflects ongoing benefit help
- Pension Credit is the most common source
- This month is important for timely claims
- Many eligible people do not claim
- Weekly support can unlock extra benefits
Final thoughts
The DWP’s confirmation of £105 weekly support for some older people highlights the importance of understanding entitlement rather than relying on headlines alone. For those on low or modest incomes, this level of weekly support can make a meaningful difference, especially during periods of high living costs.
Crucially, many people who qualify do not realise they are entitled to claim. With this month being particularly important for new or delayed claims, checking eligibility and taking action could unlock not just weekly support, but a wider package of financial help. For older people seeking stability and peace of mind, understanding and claiming the support available can be one of the most practical steps they take this year.