Many pensioners in the UK are missing out on two important benefits that could total up to £10,040 for the 2025/26 financial year. These benefits are designed to help older people, especially those with long-term health conditions or on low incomes.
One benefit, known as Pension Credit, supports those with a low income, while the other, Attendance Allowance, helps those with additional living costs due to health conditions.
Pension Credit – Financial Support for Low-Income Pensioners
Pension Credit is a benefit that can provide a significant financial boost for those over State Pension age who are on a low income. On average, it can add £4,300 to your yearly income, helping pensioners meet basic living costs.
The amount of Pension Credit you can receive depends on your income and savings. For a single pensioner, if your weekly income is below £227.10, you could be eligible for this benefit. For couples, if the combined weekly income is less than £346.60, they too may qualify.
Apart from the main financial boost, receiving Pension Credit can unlock additional benefits, such as discounts on council tax, help with heating bills through the Warm Home Discount Scheme, and even free TV licenses for those aged 75 or over.
It’s important to note that if you’re in a “mixed-age couple” where one partner is over State Pension age, but the other is not, you may not be eligible for Pension Credit unless both partners are of State Pension age.
Attendance Allowance – Support for Pensioners with Health Conditions
Attendance Allowance is designed for pensioners who require assistance due to a physical or mental health condition. This benefit helps with the additional costs of daily living, such as getting help with personal care or supervision during the day or night.
To qualify, you don’t need to have a carer or need to be receiving help at the moment. If you’re struggling with tasks like dressing, eating, bathing, or moving around due to an illness or disability, you should consider applying.
There are two rates of Attendance Allowance: £73.90 per week (lower rate) and £110.40 per week (higher rate). This translates to £295.60 or £441.60 per four-week payment period. The benefit is not means-tested, so your income or savings won’t affect your eligibility, and it’s tax-free.
Attendance Allowance is also available if you have mental health conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory impairments like being visually impaired or deaf.
How to Apply for Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance
Applying for these benefits is straightforward. To apply for Pension Credit, you can use the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK or call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234.
For Attendance Allowance, you can request the application form via the GOV.UK website or get assistance from organizations like Citizens Advice or Independent Age.
Pensioners who are eligible for Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance should take the time to check if they qualify, as missing out on these benefits means losing out on crucial financial support. If you or a loved one could benefit from these programs, don’t hesitate to apply.
The combined financial support can provide peace of mind and make a real difference to your standard of living.
FAQs
What is Pension Credit and who can claim it?
Pension Credit is a benefit for people over State Pension age with a low income. It helps boost weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £227.10 for single pensioners or £346.60 for couples. If your income is lower than these amounts, you may be eligible to claim it.
How much can I receive from Pension Credit?
On average, Pension Credit can add around £4,300 to your annual income. The amount you receive depends on your income and savings, and you could also qualify for additional help with bills, council tax, and more.
What is Attendance Allowance and who is eligible?
Attendance Allowance provides financial support to people over State Pension age who need help with personal care due to a physical or mental health condition. You don’t need to have a carer to claim it, and your income or savings won’t affect eligibility.
How much does Attendance Allowance pay?
Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates: £73.90 per week (lower rate) and £110.40 per week (higher rate). This means you can receive between £295.60 and £441.60 every four weeks, depending on the level of care you need.
How do I apply for Pension Credit or Attendance Allowance?
You can apply for Pension Credit online using the GOV.UK Pension Credit calculator or by calling the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234. To apply for Attendance Allowance, you can request the application form from the GOV.UK website or get assistance from organizations like Citizens Advice.
Yes that’s the government for u give you things in one hand take it back with the other anyone on Attendance Allowance should get the extra money even if someone us with them HOW things are worked out via the DWP even carer Allowance the people that take on full time caring for people they know don’t get any benefit from it they are on a benefit themselves or in a pension HOW fair is that ?? I can only let other people judge