Widow not eligible for Widows Pension

If the widow is or was working, she can apply based on her own PRSI record.

(By the way, PRSI is the same as stamps)

If there aren't enough contributions, she can apply for non-contributory widow's pension, which is means tested.

@Ginger83, the qualifying criteria for contributory widow's pension (or widower's pension) is sufficient PRSI contributions, and not cohabiting with someone. Age isn't an issue.

The link above should be of assistance. Either your PRSI record or your wife's record can be used, but they can't be combined.

No, you can only get the state contributory pension based on your own record.

Look into above schemes now and ask Citizens Information for advice or direct with the DSP.Your wife will need her employment records-employers name,address,dates.She should ask for her PRSI contribution record as it is at the moment-just to have the info now and look for errors.Best to have all the info in one place when time to claim arrives.

Record of your contributions

Your PRSI and credited contributions are recorded on your social insurance record by the Department of Social Protection. You can request your record of contributions, known as a ‘Contribution Statement’ on MyWelfare.ie.

or

You can make a paper application