The State Pension (Non Contributory) is a means tested payment for people aged 66 or over who do not qualify for State Pension (Contributory) or State Pension (Transition) based on their social insurance record. It is most beneficial if you apply three months before turning the age of 66.

To qualify you must first satisfy the Habitual Residence Condition which requires qualification for certain social welfare assistance payments and Child Benefit.

Secondly, you must live in the state while getting the pension. As mentioned earlier, you must be at least 66 years of age, You must also have a valid Personal Public service Number, and finally, satisfy a means test.

A means test is a way of checking if you have enough income to support yourself. It will also provide your total income. This includes any monies belonging to you, spouse, partner, and property (except your home), and the value of any investments and savings that you may have.

Some of the things which are not counted as income are your home, any social welfare payment, the first 100of weekly earnings from employment but not self-employment, any expenses you necessarily incur in carrying on any form of self-employment, and foster care Allowance.

If you sell your home 190,5000 may be ignored. This is more likely to be accepted if you bought another accommodation, rent other accommodations, move into a private nursing home, move in with a person who is caring for you, or move to special or sheltered housing.

The pension is made up of a personal rate for you and extra amounts for qualified adult or child (ren). You will receive the maximum personal rate allowed. Please note that if you leave the state your pension, in most cases, is no longer payable.

In the unfortunate case of death your pension will continue for six weeks to your spouse or civil partner. In the event that someone which you were receiving payment for, dies, you will also receive payment for six weeks. Bereavement Allowance is applicable in some cases. In most cases you are also eligible for a Free Travel Pass as well as a medical card. You may also be eligible for help with utilities, television, and telephone.

As in any case of concern, the slightest misunderstanding to create damage so learn how to address questions and be confident in asking them.