In the fiscal year 2025–2026, many of the 13 million retirees in the UK might be losing out on two distinct pensions that, when combined, could total up to £10,040.
These benefits, one for low-income retirees and the other for individuals with long-term medical issues, are intended to provide extra financial assistance above and above the basic State Pension.
Pension Credit Offers Vital Support for Low-Income Pensioners
Pension Credit is an income-related benefit aimed at boosting the annual earnings of pensioners who receive less than a guaranteed minimum level.
Currently, it assists around 1.4 million people in the UK and is estimated to be worth an average of £4,300 annually. According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), 760,000 eligible individuals are not claiming this benefit, leaving considerable funds unclaimed.
The benefit ensures that single pensioners receive at least £227.10 per week and couples £346.60 combined. Even a small award can unlock access to other financial help, including the Winter Fuel Payment for the 2025/26 year.
Pensioners can check eligibility and calculate potential payments using the official Pension Credit calculator available on GOV.UK, which requires details of income, savings, pensions, and residential status.
Applications can be made up to four months before reaching State Pension age, with claims backdated for up to three months after eligibility. The DWP provides a helpline and an online application service for convenience.
Attendance Allowance Supports Those With Long-Term Care Needs
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit intended for pensioners who require assistance or supervision due to disability or illness.
It offers two weekly rates: £73.90 or £110.40, which equates to up to £5,740.80 annually when paid every four weeks. This allowance is independent of other income or savings and does not affect eligibility for Pension Credit.
Eligibility includes needing help with personal care activities such as dressing, eating, or mobility, or requiring supervision to ensure safety. The benefit also applies to mental health conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory impairments like blindness or deafness. Importantly, claimants do not need to be currently receiving help to qualify.
Claiming Attendance Allowance involves completing a detailed application form, which some may find daunting. Support is available from organisations like Citizens Advice and Independent Age to assist applicants. Full application details can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Together, Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance provide significant additional financial support to many pensioners across the UK, addressing both income needs and long-term care requirements.
