Non contributory pension is means tested and the means of both partners are taken into account. However, the first €200 of income is disregarded and €20,000 of savings is also disregarded. When the means are calculated the first €30 is also disregarded. Your friend should apply as everyone who does not have enough of paid contributions is entitled to apply for the non contributory pension and they will get whatever is due to them after their means is calculated. If they receive a payment they are supposed to notify the department of any change in their financial income .