From April 2025, thousands of older Britons could receive an income boost of up to £772 per year, thanks to upcoming changes from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). These changes aim to support elderly and vulnerable individuals, particularly those on low incomes or living with disabilities, by increasing benefit payments and adjusting eligibility criteria to ensure better financial security during retirement.
What’s Changing from April?
The DWP has announced inflation-linked benefit uplifts for the 2025–26 financial year, with several key changes that older people should be aware of. This includes increases to Pension Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and other age-related allowances.
Here’s a breakdown of the main enhancements:
- Pension Credit: The Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit is increasing, bringing up the minimum income for single pensioners to around £218.15 per week, and for couples to about £332.95 per week. That’s an annual increase of over £700 for those eligible.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP): While intended for working-age adults, those who claimed PIP before reaching State Pension age can continue to receive it in later life. PIP is also seeing a modest uplift aligned with inflation.
- Attendance Allowance: Designed to help with personal care for those over State Pension age with disabilities, this benefit will also see a rise, supporting those who need additional care at home.
- Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support: Although administered locally, these benefits are also adjusted annually, often in line with DWP guidelines. Older adults receiving Pension Credit may also be eligible for full or partial exemption from council tax.
Why the £772 Boost Matters
According to recent government data, the full annual uplift could be worth £772 or more, especially for single pensioners who qualify for both Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance. For many, this increase can help cover essential costs such as:
- Heating and energy bills
- Medical or mobility equipment
- Food and groceries
- Transport to hospital appointments or social activities
This financial assistance is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce pensioner poverty and encourage take-up of unclaimed benefits. It follows reports that more than 1.1 million older people may be missing out on Pension Credit, which acts as a gateway to other benefits.
Important: Pension Credit not only provides direct financial support but can also entitle claimants to free NHS dental treatment, Cold Weather Payments, and help with housing costs.
Are You Eligible for the Extra £772?
Older adults must meet certain income and residency criteria to qualify for the benefits contributing to the £772 boost. Here’s a quick eligibility overview:
Pension Credit:
- You must be State Pension age or above.
- Your weekly income must be below the threshold set by the DWP.
- Savings of under £10,000 won’t affect your entitlement, but above that may reduce the amount you receive.
Attendance Allowance:
- You must be State Pension age or older.
- Have a disability or health condition that affects your daily living.
- Have needed help for at least six months unless you’re terminally ill.
How to Apply
Applying for these benefits is simple:
- Pension Credit: Apply online or by calling the Pension Credit claim line at 0800 99 1234. Details can be found on the Pension Credit page.
- Attendance Allowance: You’ll need to fill out a claim form available from the Attendance Allowance page.
- If you need support with the application, organizations such as Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk) or Citizens Advice (www.citizensadvice.org.uk) offer free help.
Government Urges Pensioners to Check Entitlements
With the cost of living continuing to rise, the government is encouraging older people to check whether they qualify for underclaimed benefits. Research by Independent Age and EntitledTo shows that billions of pounds go unclaimed every year — often because older people aren’t aware they’re eligible.
In a recent statement, the DWP reiterated its commitment to “support the most vulnerable,” and said these measures would “ensure pensioners do not fall behind inflation.”
Final Thoughts
If you or someone you know is over State Pension age, now is the perfect time to review your benefits. The £772 annual boost could make a real difference — especially when combined with other entitlements.
For more details or to get a free benefits check, visit the official Gov.uk benefits page or contact Age UK Advice Line at 0800 678 1602.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
