Many pensioners in the UK could be missing out on a significant income boost through two key benefits: Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance. Together, these benefits could provide eligible pensioners with up to £9,542 in the current financial year, and this will increase to £9,940 in 2025/26 due to benefit rate increases in April. Here’s what you need to know about claiming these benefits and maximizing your income.
1. Pension Credit: Average Annual Support of £4,200
What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a benefit designed to help people over State Pension age who have a low income. On average, claimants receive around £3,900 annually, and it tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum.
- Single pensioners: Minimum income of £218.15 per week
- Couples: Minimum combined income of £332.95 per week
If you are on the New State Pension and your income is below these amounts, you may qualify for additional financial support. Those on the Basic State Pension who reached State Pension age before April 6, 2016, may qualify if their weekly income is under £260.68 (single) or £380.55 (couples).
Extra Support You Could Receive with Pension Credit
Claiming Pension Credit doesn’t just boost your income—it also gives you access to other benefits, including:
- Housing Benefit (if you rent)
- Support for Mortgage Interest (if you own your home)
- Council Tax discount
- Free TV licence (if you’re 75 or older)
- Help with NHS costs (dental treatment, glasses, transport to hospital)
- Heating cost support (Warm Home Discount and Winter Fuel Payment)
- Royal Mail redirection discount (if you’re moving house)
2. Attendance Allowance: Up to £5,642 a Year
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance helps with extra costs for those with a long-term physical or mental health condition, illness, or disability. It is not means-tested, so it doesn’t matter how much income or savings you have, and it’s tax-free. The benefit is available at two rates:
- £72.65 per week (lower rate)
- £108.55 per week (higher rate)
These payments are typically made every four weeks, amounting to either £290.60 or £434.20 per period. In the 2024/25 financial year, that totals around £5,644 annually for higher-rate claimants.
Who Should Apply for Attendance Allowance?
You may qualify for Attendance Allowance if you need help or supervision due to:
- A physical condition that makes personal tasks difficult (e.g., getting dressed, bathing, eating, or moving around)
- A mental health condition (e.g., anxiety, dementia, or depression)
- Learning disabilities
- Sensory issues (e.g., being deaf or visually impaired)
It doesn’t matter if you don’t currently have someone helping you—what matters is that you need the help.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Out
There are over 12.9 million people over State Pension age in the UK, yet thousands of them are not claiming the benefits they’re entitled to. The DWP estimates:
- 760,000 pensioners are eligible for Pension Credit but are not claiming it.
- Over one million pensioners could be missing out on Attendance Allowance.
How to Check Your Eligibility and Apply
For Pension Credit:
- Online Calculator: Use the Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK to get an estimate of what you may receive.
- Helpline: Call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234 (open 8 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday).
For Attendance Allowance:
- Visit the official Attendance Allowance page on GOV.UK for detailed guidance on how to apply.
With the rising cost of living, it’s crucial for pensioners to explore the financial support available to them. By claiming Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance, you could boost your annual income by almost £10,000 while gaining access to additional benefits like housing support, free healthcare, and heating cost assistance. Don’t miss out on what you’re entitled to—check your eligibility today.
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FAQ’s
What is Pension Credit and how does it help pensioners?
Pension Credit is a benefit that boosts the income of people over State Pension age who have a low income. It tops up their weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level and provides access to other benefits like free TV licences, housing support, and heating discounts.
What is Attendance Allowance and who qualifies for it?
Attendance Allowance helps with extra costs for people over State Pension age who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability. It is not means-tested, tax-free, and available at two rates depending on the level of need.
How much can I get from Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance?
Combined, Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance can provide up to £9,542 annually in the current financial year, rising to £9,940 in 2025/26 due to benefit rate increases.
Can I get Attendance Allowance if I have savings or other income?
Yes, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your savings and income will not affect your eligibility. You can claim it even if you are working.
How can I check if I’m eligible for Pension Credit or Attendance Allowance?
You can check eligibility for Pension Credit using the GOV.UK Pension Credit calculator or by calling the helpline at 0800 99 1234. For Attendance Allowance, visit GOV.UK for application details.