Benefits You Could Be Entitled to If You Are Over 65

If you have a health condition or disability that means you need help with personal care or supervision, you may be eligible for Attendance Allowance. This is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit paid at two rates — up to £73.90/week (lower rate) if you need help during the day or night, or up to £110.40/week (higher rate) if you need help both during the day and at night. Attendance Allowance is particularly valuable because it can act as a gateway benefit, potentially increasing your entitlement to Pension Credit and Council Tax Reduction. If you were already receiving PIP or DLA before reaching State Pension age, you may continue to receive these benefits.

Pension Credit is designed to top up your weekly income if it falls below a certain level. The Guarantee Credit element tops up your income to at least £218.15 per week for couples or £167.25 for single people. Unlike Universal Credit, there is no upper savings limit that automatically disqualifies you — savings over £10,000 are assumed to generate a small income, but this does not prevent you from claiming. Pension Credit also acts as a gateway to many other benefits, including the Warm Home Discount, help with NHS costs, and Cold Weather Payments. It can be backdated by up to 3 months, so even if you have not claimed before, you could receive a lump sum for the backdated period.

If you are renting and on a low income, you may be eligible for Housing Benefit (which is still available for pension-age claimants) and Council Tax Reduction. Winter Fuel Payment provides an annual payment of between £100 and £300 to help with heating costs — eligibility has been linked to receiving Pension Credit or certain other benefits. The Warm Home Discount provides a £150 annual discount on your electricity bill if you receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit. Cold Weather Payments of £25 may be paid automatically during very cold spells if you receive Pension Credit.