The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering state pensioners an additional £86.05 per week through Pension Credit, specifically for those who receive any of seven qualifying benefits. This top-up brings the weekly income to £238 for single pensioners or £363.25 for couples.
Qualifying Benefits for the £86 Boost
To receive the extra £86.05 a week, pensioners must be in receipt of one of the following: Attendance Allowance, the middle or highest rate 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 care component of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance.
Savings Credit for Older Pensioners
Pensioners who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016 may also qualify for the Savings Credit part of Pension Credit if they have saved money for retirement through a personal or workplace pension. Single individuals can receive up to £17.96 per week, while couples can get up to £20.10 per week. It is possible to receive Savings Credit even without the Guarantee Credit portion of Pension Credit.
Official Statement on Increases
Baroness Sherlock, Minister of State (Minister of Lords), confirmed: "The Standard Minimum Guarantee in Pension Credit will increase by 4.8% in line with the increase in average earnings. From April, it will be £238.00 a week for a single pensioner and £363.25 a week for a couple, ensuring the incomes of the poorest pensioners are protected."
She added: "Other State Pension and benefit rates covered by my statutory review will be increased by 3.8%, in line with the increase in the consumer prices index in the year to September 2025. This includes most working-age benefits and other benefits for people below State Pension age; benefits to help with additional needs arising from disability; Statutory Payments including Statutory Sick Pay and Statutory Maternity Pay; and Additional State Pension. The Pension Credit Savings Credit maximum amount will also increase by 3.8%."
