Omni-Man
As the cost of living continues to rise, many UK pensioners are missing out on two major benefits that could boost annual income by over £10,000.
With an estimated 13 million pensioners across the UK, it’s crucial to understand which benefits you might be entitled to.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) urges eligible seniors to explore Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance, which are paid in addition to the State Pension.
Let’s break down what each benefit offers and how much pensioners could potentially receive in the 2025/26 financial year.
1. Pension Credit: Worth Over £4,300 a Year
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for pensioners on low income, designed to top up weekly income to a minimum guaranteed amount. It is separate from the State Pension.
Pension Credit Income Thresholds 2025:
| Status | Weekly Minimum Income | Annual Value |
|---|---|---|
| Single Pensioner | £227.10 | ~£11,810 |
| Couple | £346.60 | ~£18,019 |
If your income is below these levels, Pension Credit tops it up and may also open access to other support, including:
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax discounts
- Free TV Licence (aged 75+)
- Help with NHS dental and travel costs
- Warm Home Discount
- Royal Mail redirection discounts
An average recipient gets around £4,300 per year in Pension Credit. Even if you’re eligible for just £1 a week, it can unlock this entire suite of additional support.
2. Attendance Allowance: Up to £5,740.80 Per Year
Attendance Allowance helps pensioners with disabilities or long-term health conditions who need assistance with personal care or supervision.
Unlike Pension Credit, it is not means-tested, not taxed, and does not affect other benefits.
Attendance Allowance Payment Rates 2025/26:
| Rate | Weekly Payment | 4-Week Payment | Annual Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 | £3,852.80 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 | £5,740.80 |
Eligibility includes those who:
- Have physical or mental health conditions
- Require help or supervision during the day or night
- Experience pain, mobility issues, or chronic illness
- Are visually or hearing impaired
- Suffer from mental health issues or learning difficulties
Over 1.7 million people currently receive Attendance Allowance, yet over 1 million pensioners are estimated to be missing out.
Scotland Alternative: Pension Age Disability Payment
In Scotland, new claims for Attendance Allowance are replaced by Pension Age Disability Payment, but eligibility criteria and payment amounts remain the same. Claims are processed by Social Security Scotland.
Quick Guide to Claiming
- Pension Credit: Check eligibility and apply online via GOV.UK, or call the Pension Credit Helpline at 0800 99 1234.
- Attendance Allowance: Download a form from GOV.UK, or request one by phone. Help is available from Citizens Advice, Independent Age, and Age UK.
Many pensioners could significantly increase their income—by more than £10,000 per year—simply by claiming Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance.
With over 700,000 eligible pensioners missing out on Pension Credit, and over 1 million eligible for Attendance Allowance, it’s vital for seniors or their loved ones to check their entitlements.
These benefits not only enhance income but also unlock additional financial support, easing the burden of daily living costs.
FAQs
Can I receive both Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance at the same time?
Yes, both benefits are paid separately and can be received together. Attendance Allowance does not count as income when calculating eligibility for Pension Credit.
Do savings affect Attendance Allowance eligibility?
No, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. Your income, savings, or other assets will not affect your eligibility.
Is Pension Credit available to mixed-age couples?
No, since May 2019, mixed-age couples (one under State Pension age) are treated as working-age and must wait until both partners reach State Pension age to claim Pension Credit.