The UK government has made a strong call for pensioners to come forward and claim two vital payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), which could help boost their annual income by as much as £10,040. These two payments—Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance (or Pension Age Disability Payment in Scotland)—are designed to support older people who are struggling with daily living costs or who have limited income.
These financial benefits are aimed at easing the pressure of rising living expenses while providing assistance to pensioners facing physical, mental, or long-term health challenges.
A Breakdown of the £10,040 in Support
The combined value of these two payments comes to a significant total. Here’s the breakdown:
- Pension Credit: The average annual boost is £4,300.
- Attendance Allowance (or PADP): This can be as much as £441.60 per month, which totals £5,740.80 annually.
DWP Payments Pensioners Can Claim:
| Benefit Type | Monthly Support | Annual Equivalent | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pension Credit | ~£358.33 | £4,300 (avg.) | Tops up low income for those over State Pension age |
| Attendance Allowance / PADP | Up to £441.60 | £5,740.80 | Helps cover costs linked to health issues or disabilities |
| Total Support | — | Up to £10,040.80 | Combined annual financial assistance |
1. What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people over the State Pension age (currently 66). It’s there to help those with a low income. It’s divided into two parts:
a) Guarantee Credit
This guarantees a minimum level of income for pensioners:
- £227.10 per week for a single person
- £346.60 per week for couples
Even if your income is a bit higher than this, you might still qualify if you meet certain conditions, like being a carer, having a severe disability, facing housing Benefit costs, or supporting a dependent child.
b) Savings Credit
This is available only if:
- You (or your partner) reached State Pension age before April 6, 2016
- There’s no cap on savings, but if you have over £10,000 in savings, the amount you receive could be affected.
For mixed-age couples—where only one person is over pension age—they must apply for Universal Credit until both partners reach the State Pension age, after which they can apply for Pension Credit.
2. What Is Attendance Allowance (or PADP in Scotland)?
Attendance Allowance provides financial help to pensioners who are dealing with long-term illness, disabilities, or mental health conditions. It’s meant for those who need care or supervision—even if they aren’t receiving any help at the moment.
Over 1.7 million older people in the UK are already receiving this support, and the good news is that you don’t need a carer to qualify. Plus, your eligibility isn’t dependent on your income or savings.
Key Conditions That Qualify:
- Needing help with basic tasks like washing, dressing, eating, or moving
- Requiring supervision during the day or night due to the risk of falls, confusion, or mental illness
3. How to Apply for These Payments
If you think you’re eligible, you can apply in several ways:
- Online through the government’s website
- By phone or post if you prefer a non-digital option
- With help from a family member or support group like Citizens Advice
Even if you’re not completely sure whether you qualify, it’s worth applying. You could end up receiving back payments if you’re partially eligible.
Why This Matters Now
With rising living costs in the UK, these benefits are more important than ever. Yet, many pensioners may not realize they qualify, and as a result, they could be missing out on thousands of pounds every year.
The DWP is urging pensioners to check their eligibility, especially those who haven’t applied before or whose health or financial situations have changed. The £10,040 support package through Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance is a vital lifeline for many, helping to alleviate the financial strain of today’s high living costs.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Pension Credit in 2025?
Anyone aged 66 or older, with income below £227.10 (single) or £346.60 (couple) per week, may be eligible. Conditions like caring for others or having a disability might also apply.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance without a carer?
Yes, you do not need a carer to claim. The benefit is based on your need for help or supervision, not on the help you’re currently receiving.
How much can I get in total from both payments?
Eligible pensioners can receive up to £10,040 per year, with £4,300 from Pension Credit and £5,740.80 from Attendance Allowance.
If you or someone you know might be eligible for these payments, it’s time to act. Don’t miss out on the support that could make a big difference in covering everyday costs.
