Millions of pensioners in the UK may be entitled to financial support they are not currently claiming, according to new figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Changes to eligibility criteria and benefit upratings could mean that individuals over State Pension age are missing out on up to £9,940 per year in financial aid.
Who Is Eligible for These Benefits?
The two main benefits in question are Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance, which provide financial assistance to older individuals on low incomes or those with long-term health conditions.
- Pension Credit is designed for pensioners with limited income, offering an average yearly boost of around £4,200.
- Attendance Allowance supports those with disabilities or long-term health conditions, with payments of up to £5,740 per year starting in April 2025.
Despite these benefits being available, it is estimated that 760,000 pensioners are eligible for Pension Credit but have not applied, while over one million people could qualify for Attendance Allowance.
Pension Credit : Financial Support for Low-Income Pensioners
Pension Credit ensures that pensioners’ incomes reach a minimum threshold. Currently, individuals with weekly incomes below £218.15 (or £332.95 for couples) may qualify. For those who reached State Pension age before April 6, 2016, the income thresholds are £260.68 (single) and £380.55 (couple).
Even a small Pension Credit award—such as £1 per week—can open doors to additional financial support, including:
- Winter Fuel Payment
- Warm Home Discount Scheme
- Free NHS dental treatment and help with transport costs
- Housing Benefit or mortgage interest support
- A free TV licence for those aged 75 and over
- Council Tax discounts
However, mixed-age couples (where one partner is of State Pension age and the other is younger) face different DWP rules, meaning they must both reach State Pension age before qualifying for Pension Credit.
Attendance Allowance: Extra Financial Help for Those With Health Conditions
For those over State Pension age living with a disability or long-term health condition, Attendance Allowance offers additional financial support, regardless of income or savings. This benefit is not means-tested and remains tax-free.
The benefit is paid at two rates :
- £72.65 per week (lower rate)
- £108.55 per week (higher rate)
As of April 2025, the higher rate will increase to £5,740 per year, and the lower rate will be £3,842 per year.
Applicants do not need a formal carer to be eligible. The benefit supports individuals who struggle with daily living tasks, including:
- Dressing and washing
- Eating and drinking
- Mobility assistance
- Safety and supervision due to cognitive or sensory impairments
Conditions covered by DWP Attendance Allowance include physical disabilities, chronic illnesses, mental health issues, and sensory impairments (such as vision or hearing loss).
How to Check Eligibility and Claim
For Pension Credit, individuals can check eligibility using the Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK or by calling the Pension Credit helpline (0800 99 1234, Monday–Friday, 8 am–6 pm).
For Attendance Allowance, claimants must fill out an application form, available from GOV.UK. Support in completing the form is offered by Citizens Advice and Independent Age.
Im hoping I get my full state pension this year as after the last several years of being entitled, DWP keep missing out one months pension leaving me several hundred pounds short. Despite contacting them about this, they have done nothing. I think I may have to get the ombudsman involved. Bet there are other people in a similar position. We should get 13 payments a year as it’s every 4 weeks.