The UK government, through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is offering additional financial support to pensioners on low incomes who also receive certain disability benefits. Eligible individuals could receive an extra £86.05 per week through Pension Credit, providing meaningful support for everyday living costs.
This additional payment forms part of the broader Pension Credit system, which is designed to ensure a minimum income level for older people.
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit available to people over State Pension age in Great Britain. It supplements weekly income and may include extra elements based on personal circumstances such as disability or caring responsibilities.
| Component | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Disability Addition | £86.05 |
| Carer Addition | £48.15 |
| Single Minimum Income | £238.00 |
| Couple Minimum Income | £363.25 |
The disability addition alone can increase income significantly over time, amounting to £344.20 every four weeks.
Eligibility
To qualify for the extra £86 per week, pensioners must meet specific criteria.
Eligible individuals typically:
- Are over State Pension age
- Have a low income
- Receive qualifying disability benefits
These qualifying benefits include:
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (middle or highest care rate)
- Personal Independence Payment
- Adult Disability Payment
- Pension Age Disability Payment in Scotland
For couples, if one partner receives a qualifying disability benefit, both may benefit from the additional support.
Amount
The financial support varies depending on household circumstances.
| Household Type | Weekly Payment |
|---|---|
| Single Pensioner (with disability) | +£86.05 |
| Couple (one eligible partner) | £86.05 |
| Couple (both eligible) | Up to £172.10 |
In addition, the average annual value of Pension Credit is around £4,300, according to recent figures.
Gap
Despite its importance, Pension Credit remains underclaimed.
- Around 1.4 million pensioners currently receive it
- More than 700,000 eligible individuals are not claiming
Common misconceptions include:
- Belief that owning a home disqualifies eligibility
- Assumption that savings automatically prevent claims
In reality, many people with modest savings or property ownership may still qualify.
Extras
Receiving Pension Credit can unlock access to additional forms of support.
These include:
- Housing Benefit or Support for Mortgage Interest
- Council Tax reductions
- Free TV licence for those aged 75 or over
- Help with NHS costs such as dental care and glasses
- Warm Home Discount for energy bills
These additional benefits can significantly increase overall financial support.
Carer
An additional Carer’s element is also available.
Individuals may receive £48.15 per week if they:
- Receive Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment
- Have an underlying entitlement to these benefits
This applies even if the full Carer’s Allowance is not paid due to overlapping benefits like the State Pension.
Check
The quickest way to check eligibility is through official tools and support services.
Options include:
- Online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK
- Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234
- Support from organisations such as Age UK, Citizens Advice, and Independent Age
Applicants will need details such as income, savings, pensions, and personal circumstances.
Apply
Claims can be made online, by phone, or by post.
Key points:
- Applications can start up to four months before reaching State Pension age
- Claims can be backdated for up to three months
- Required details include National Insurance number, financial information, and bank details
Certain individuals cannot use the online calculator, including those who are self-employed or own multiple properties.
Rules
Special rules apply to mixed-age couples.
If one partner is below State Pension age, the couple is treated as working-age for benefit purposes. This means they may not qualify for Pension Credit until both partners reach the qualifying age.
This rule, introduced in 2019, affects eligibility for several pension-related benefits.
The additional £86 weekly support through Pension Credit can make a meaningful difference for pensioners managing on limited incomes. Combined with other available benefits, it forms a broader support system aimed at maintaining financial stability in later life. Given the number of eligible individuals who have yet to claim, checking entitlement remains an important step for those who may qualify.
FAQs
Who can get extra £86 per week?
Pensioners on disability benefits with low income.
What is Pension Credit?
A benefit that tops up income for pensioners.
Can homeowners apply?
Yes, owning a home does not disqualify you.
How to check eligibility?
Use GOV.UK calculator or call helpline.
