State pensioners who have caregiving responsibilities can receive an additional £48.15 per week from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) by making a single claim. This benefit, known as the Pension Credit extra amount for carers, was increased by 3.8% on April 6 for the 2026/27 tax year, rising from £46.40 to £48.15 per week. According to the DWP, the average annual value of Pension Credit is now around £4,300.
How the Extra Payment Works
The extra amount is paid separately from the State Pension, acting as a top-up to regular payments. It can be claimed regardless of other income, savings, or home ownership. The standard Pension Credit payment is now worth up to £238 per week for single claimants, but those caring for another adult can get an additional £48.15 if they receive Carer's Allowance (or Carer Support Payment in Scotland), or have claimed Carer's Allowance but are not being paid because they receive another higher-rate benefit (known as underlying entitlement).
If both a pensioner and their partner meet the criteria, the extra amount doubles to £96.30 per week. For those qualifying at the full rate, this amounts to £2,503.80 in additional annual payments from the DWP, on top of Pension Credit and the State Pension.
Increase Details
The 3.8% rise represents a weekly increase of £1.75, or an extra £91 per year. Baroness Sherlock, Minister of State, confirmed in November 2025 that the Standard Minimum Guarantee in Pension Credit would increase by 4.8% to £238.00 per week for single pensioners and £363.25 for couples, while most other benefits would rise by 3.8% in line with the Consumer Prices Index.
Additional Benefits
Pension Credit also unlocks a range of other financial support, including Housing Benefit, Winter Fuel Payment (up to £300), Council Tax discount, free TV licence for those aged 75 or over, £150 off winter energy bills via the Warm Home Discount Scheme, and help with NHS dental treatment, glasses, and transport costs.
DWP Guidance on Carer's Extra Amount
In May 2026 guidance, the DWP explained that the extra amount of £48.15 per week is available if the customer or their partner is getting Carer's Allowance or Carer Support Payment, or has underlying entitlement. If both partners qualify, the amount is doubled. When Carer's Allowance or Carer Support Payment stops, the extra amount continues for eight weeks, except if the cared-for person has died, in which case it stops immediately. For Carer Support Payment recipients, this period extends to 12 weeks after the death of the cared-for person.
