Claim Two UK Pension Benefits Worth Up To £10,040 – Full Guide To Eligibility, Payments & How To Apply
If you’re aged 66 or older and living in the UK, you could be missing out on two valuable pension benefits—Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance—worth up to £10,040 annually. As living costs rise, these benefits offer essential financial support for retirees and older adults dealing with limited income or personal care needs.
Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, claim procedures, and how much you could receive.
Overview of the Two Benefits
| Benefit | Annual Amount | Eligibility | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pension Credit | Up to £4,300 | Age 66+, income under £218.15 (single) or £332.95 (couple) | Online, phone, or by post via GOV.UK or helpline |
| Attendance Allowance | Up to £5,740.80 | Age 66+, need help with personal care | Online, phone, or with help from Citizens Advice |
What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit that boosts the income of pensioners. It has two parts:
- Guarantee Credit: Tops up weekly income to £218.15 for singles or £332.95 for couples.
- Savings Credit: For people who reached pension age before 6 April 2016 and have modest savings or pension income.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be aged 66 or over
- Must live in the UK
- Income must be below the weekly threshold
- Savings can affect the amount but do not disqualify you completely
How Much Can You Get?
- Up to £4,300 annually for Guarantee Credit
- Additional funds possible with Savings Credit
Additional Perks with Pension Credit
If you qualify, you may also get:
- Free NHS dental care
- Cold Weather Payments
- Winter Fuel Payment
- Free TV licence (if over 75)
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is for people aged 66+ who need help due to disability, illness, or age-related issues. It is not means-tested, so your income or savings won’t affect your eligibility.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 66 or over
- Require help with daily activities such as dressing, eating, or bathing
- Have a physical or mental disability that affects daily living
Two Payment Tiers
| Rate | Amount per Week | Annual Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £3,842.80 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £5,740.80 |
This benefit is tax-free and paid weekly, typically via direct bank deposit.
How to Apply for These Benefits
Pension Credit
- Online: Apply via the GOV.UK website
- By Phone: Call 0800 99 1234
- By Post: Request a form via phone and mail it
You can apply up to 4 months before turning 66.
Attendance Allowance
- Online: Visit the GOV.UK Attendance Allowance page
- Phone: Request a form or support
- Help: Contact Citizens Advice or Age UK for application support
Applicants may need to submit a description of their condition or a doctor’s note.
How to Maximize Your £10,040 in Pension Benefits
- Check for both benefits – You can receive both Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance if eligible.
- Apply early – You can start your application before reaching 66 to receive payments promptly.
- Seek assistance – Get help from trusted organizations like Citizens Advice if you’re unsure how to apply.
With combined benefits of up to £10,040 per year, Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance can make a major difference in your financial stability during retirement.
These benefits are designed to support you—don’t leave them unclaimed. Start by checking your eligibility, and if you qualify, apply today via phone, online, or with the help of support services.
FAQs
Can I receive both Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance at the same time?
Yes, if you meet the eligibility criteria for both, you can claim them together and receive full entitlements.
Will savings affect my eligibility for Pension Credit?
Savings over £10,000 may reduce your Pension Credit, but you can still apply and may receive partial payments.
How long does it take to process a claim?
It typically takes up to six weeks, depending on whether additional medical documentation is needed.
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