Millions of state pensioners in the UK may not be aware that they could be entitled to seven additional benefits worth up to £24,125 per year—on top of their regular State Pension.
These extra payments are designed to help older citizens manage the rising cost of living, especially for those with illnesses, disabilities, or low income.
If you are over State Pension age, it’s worth checking if you qualify for these benefits. They can significantly boost your yearly income, reduce household expenses, and provide additional support for your care needs.
Who Can Claim These Extra Benefits?
You may qualify if you:
- Are over State Pension age (currently 66 for most people in the UK)
- Have an illness or disability that affects daily living
- Are on a low income or need help with housing and council tax
- Have a carer who looks after you regularly
The benefits come from different government support schemes, including the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), local councils, and seasonal assistance programs.
Breakdown of the 7 Benefits for State Pensioners
| Benefit | Annual Value | Who Can Claim | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attendance Allowance | Up to £5,700 | Over State Pension age with illness/disability | Two rates: £73.90/week (day/night help) or £110.40/week (day & night help) |
| Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit | Up to £11,700 | Disabled due to work-related injury/illness | Weekly payments, top rate £225.30/week |
| Pension Credit | Up to £4,200 | Low-income pensioners | Tops up income to £227.10/week (single) or £346.60/week (couple) |
| Housing Benefit | Varies | Low-income pensioners | Helps pay rent (private or council) |
| Council Tax Reduction | Up to £2,200 | Low-income pensioners | Reduces council tax bill by up to 100% |
| Cold Weather Payment | £25 per qualifying week | Pensioners in cold weather periods | Paid when temperatures stay at/below zero for 7 days |
| Winter Fuel Payment | £300 | Most pensioners in England & Wales | Helps cover winter heating bills |
1. Attendance Allowance – Up to £5,700 Per Year
The Attendance Allowance is for pensioners who have a severe illness or disability that requires regular help.
- Lower rate: £73.90/week – for those needing help during the day or night
- Higher rate: £110.40/week – for those needing help both day and night, or who are terminally ill
- No impact from savings or income
- Not available to those in a local authority-funded care home
2. Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit – Up to £11,700 Per Year
If you are disabled because of a work-related injury or illness caused by your job, you may be eligible.
- Maximum payment: £225.30/week
- Cannot claim if self-employed at the time of the accident
3. Pension Credit – Up to £4,200 Per Year
Pension Credit helps boost the income of low-income pensioners.
- Guarantees a minimum income of £227.10/week for singles and £346.60/week for couples
- Additional amounts for carers, severe disability, or responsibility for children
4. Housing Benefit
Although being replaced by Universal Credit, some pensioners still qualify for Housing Benefit to help pay rent.
- Can cover all or part of the rent
- Depends on housing type, income, and household size
5. Council Tax Reduction – Up to £2,200 Per Year
You could get up to 100% off your Council Tax bill if you’re on a low income.
- Each local council runs its own scheme
- Based on household income, savings, and number of dependents
6. Cold Weather Payment – £25 Per Qualifying Week
Between 1 November and 31 March, you’ll get £25 for each 7-day period when temperatures stay at/below 0°C in your area.
7. Winter Fuel Payment – £300
Around 9 million pensioners will get the Winter Fuel Payment this year.
- Paid to those aged over State Pension age and meeting income criteria
- Helps cover heating bills during the coldest months
Why You Should Check Your Eligibility Now
With the cost of living continuing to rise, many pensioners are missing out on benefits simply because they haven’t applied. Even if you own your home or have some savings, you could still qualify for Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance, or Council Tax Reduction.
These benefits are designed to work alongside your State Pension, not replace it. In some cases, getting one benefit (such as Attendance Allowance) can make you eligible for others, boosting your income further.
If you’re over State Pension age, it’s essential to check what extra financial help you can receive. The seven benefits worth up to £24,125 per year could make a massive difference in covering housing costs, heating bills, and daily living expenses.
Claiming what you’re entitled to not only improves your financial security but also ensures you live more comfortably during retirement. Don’t leave money unclaimed—check your eligibility today.
FAQs
Can I claim all seven benefits at the same time?
Yes, in some cases, you may qualify for multiple benefits simultaneously, depending on your circumstances.
Does my savings or income affect these benefits?
Some benefits, like Attendance Allowance, are not affected by savings, but others, like Pension Credit, are means-tested.
How do I apply for these benefits?
You can apply through the DWP, your local council, or relevant government departments. Many applications can be completed online or by phone.