early retirement, additional payment?

W

wanaretire

Guest
A relative is due to take early retirement from the HSE, she is 63. Her husband is retired but only has a contributary pension. Because she has only been working for 14 years, she believes her weekly pension payment will be about €55. Is there any other payment that she may qualify for in the 2 years before she can appply for her contributary pension? They have some savings, but understandibly are reluctant to spend this just yet.
 
If her husband is on a state contributory pension, he may be entitled to an increase for his wife if he isn't already getting one.