Thousands of UK state pensioners are being strongly encouraged to come forward to claim two crucial Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) payments that could boost their annual income by as much as £10,040.
These payments—Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance (or Pension Age Disability Payment in Scotland)—are available to eligible older individuals struggling with daily living expenses or low income.
This financial support aims to ease the pressure of rising living costs and assist pensioners with physical or mental health issues, disabilities, or long-term conditions.
Breakdown of the Two Payments Worth £10,040
The combined value of the two benefits comes from:
- Pension Credit: Average annual boost of £4,300
- Attendance Allowance (or PADP): Up to £441.60 per month, equalling £5,740.80 per year
DWP Payments Pensioners Can Claim
Benefit Type | Monthly Support | Annual Equivalent | Purpose |
---|---|---|---|
Pension Credit | ~£358.33 | £4,300 (avg.) | Tops up low income above State Pension age |
Attendance Allowance / PADP | Up to £441.60 | £5,740.80 | Helps cover costs linked to disability or health issues |
Total Support | — | Up to £10,040.80 | Combined annual financial assistance |
1. What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit aimed at individuals over State Pension age (currently 66) with low income. It is split into two components:
a) Guarantee Credit
Guarantees a minimum income level for pensioners:
- £227.10 per week for a single person
- £346.60 per week for couples
Even if your income is slightly higher, you might still qualify if you:
- Are a carer
- Have a severe disability
- Incur housing costs
- Support a dependent child or young person
b) Savings Credit
This is only available if:
- You or your partner reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016
There is no savings cap, but if you have over £10,000 in savings, the amount you receive may be affected.
Mixed-age couples (where only one partner is over pension age) must usually apply for Universal Credit until both partners meet the State Pension age. At that point, they may then qualify for Pension Credit.
2. What Is Attendance Allowance (or PADP in Scotland)?
Attendance Allowance provides tax-free financial help to pensioners who:
- Have a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition
- Require care or supervision, even if they’re not currently receiving assistance
More than 1.7 million elderly individuals across the UK already receive this benefit. You do not need a carer to apply, and your eligibility does not depend on your income or savings.
Key Conditions That Qualify:
- Needing help with washing, dressing, eating, or moving
- Supervision during the day or night due to risk of falls, confusion, or mental illness
How to Apply for These Payments
Eligible pensioners can apply:
- Online through the government’s website
- By phone or post for those who prefer non-digital options
- With the help of a family member or advice centre like Citizens Advice
If you think you may qualify but are unsure, it’s recommended to submit an application or request a review—as even partial eligibility could result in significant back payments.
Why This Matters Now
With the cost of living in the UK continuing to rise, these payments could provide vital support for pensioners living on tight budgets. Yet many pensioners are unaware they qualify, missing out on thousands of pounds every year.
On June 24, 2025, the DWP reemphasised the importance of encouraging pensioners to check their eligibility, especially those who have never applied before or whose health and financial situations have changed.
The DWP’s £10,040 support package through Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance offers essential help to older citizens struggling with rising living costs.
Pensioners are urged to check their eligibility immediately and apply without delay to avoid missing out on life-changing financial assistance.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Pension Credit in 2025?
Anyone aged 66 or above with income below £227.10 (single) or £346.60 (couple) weekly may be eligible. Other conditions like caring responsibilities or disability may also apply.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance without a carer?
Yes, you do not need to have a carer to claim. The benefit is based on your need for help or supervision, not current support received.
How much can I get in total from both payments?
Eligible pensioners can receive up to £10,040 per year, including £4,300 from Pension Credit and £5,740.80 from Attendance Allowance.
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