State pensioners living with a severe disability could be eligible for an additional £86.05 each week on top of their Pension Credit, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This extra payment, known as the severe disability addition, is designed to help cover the higher living costs associated with long-term health conditions.
Pension Credit itself is a means-tested benefit for people who have reached State Pension age and are on a low income. It provides a top-up to bring weekly income up to a guaranteed minimum level, and can also assist with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges. The DWP notes that Pension Credit is separate from the State Pension, and you can claim it even if you have savings, other income, or own your own home.
Who Qualifies for the Extra £86.05 Weekly Payment?
To receive the severe disability addition, you must be getting Pension Credit and also receive one of a specific list of disability benefits. These include Attendance Allowance, the middle or highest rate of the care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Armed Forces Independence Payment, the daily living component of Adult Disability Payment, Pension Age Disability Payment, or the middle or highest rate of the care component of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance.
If you meet these criteria, the DWP will automatically add the extra amount to your Pension Credit payment, meaning you could receive a total of £86.05 more each week. This can make a significant difference to your monthly budget, helping with everyday essentials or unexpected costs.
Additional Support for Carers and Families
The DWP also offers an extra £48.15 per week for those who receive Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment, or who have claimed Carer’s Allowance but are not being paid because they already receive another benefit at a higher rate. If you and your partner both claim Carer’s Allowance, you can both get this additional amount, potentially doubling the extra support.
Furthermore, Pension Credit can open the door to other financial help, such as Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and a free TV licence if you are over 75. It also entitles you to help with NHS costs, including dental treatment, glasses, and travel to hospital appointments.
How to Apply for Pension Credit
To qualify for Pension Credit, you must live in England, Scotland, or Wales and have reached State Pension age. If you are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein, you and your family usually need settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme. The deadline to apply to the scheme was 30 June 2021 for most people, but you may still be able to apply in some circumstances.
Applying for Pension Credit is straightforward and can be done online, by phone, or by post. You will need details of your income, savings, and any benefits you receive. The DWP encourages everyone who thinks they might be eligible to check, as many pensioners miss out on this vital support.
Impact on Pensioners and the Broader Community
This extra financial support is particularly important for older people living with disabilities, who often face higher costs for care, equipment, and heating. According to recent figures, around 1.4 million pensioners are eligible for Pension Credit but not claiming it, meaning they are missing out on an average of £3,500 per year. The additional severe disability payment could be a lifeline for those with the most complex needs.
Local authorities and charities have welcomed the continued availability of these payments, stressing the importance of take-up. As one DWP spokesperson said: “Pension Credit is a key part of the welfare system, ensuring that the most vulnerable pensioners receive the financial support they are entitled to. We urge anyone who thinks they may qualify to apply without delay.”
In the context of rising living costs, these extra payments can make a real difference, helping pensioners maintain their independence and quality of life. For those caring for a severely disabled partner or relative, the additional carer’s amounts provide recognition of the vital role they play.
Future Changes and Related News
Meanwhile, in other news, Andy Burnham has proposed a £37 plan for roads in England from January 2027, which could affect local transport budgets. However, for individual pensioners, the immediate focus remains on claiming all the benefits they are due.
If you or a loved one might be eligible for Pension Credit and the severe disability addition, it is worth checking with the DWP or a local advice service such as Citizens Advice. The application process is simple, and the potential rewards are substantial.
