Pensioners stand to receive an extra £458 per month from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) starting in April next year, with certain payments set to increase by 3.8%. Over 1.7 million individuals of State Pension age in Great Britain currently receive up to £1,362 per month through separate payments from the DWP and Social Security Scotland. The Attendance Allowance and Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) provide additional financial assistance to older individuals dealing with disabilities, long-term illnesses, or health conditions, with rates of either £73.90 or £110.40 per week.
These benefits, not subject to means-testing, offer either £295.60 or £441.60 every four weeks. By leveraging these disability benefits, pensioners can potentially augment their income by up to £5,740, a figure projected to rise to £5,959 by April 2026. The anticipated 3.8% increase in benefits aligns with the September Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate. The State Pension, linked to the Triple Lock earnings growth of 4.8%, currently stands at £230.25 per week and could increase to £241.30 per week by 2026.
With the uprated higher award for Attendance Allowance or PADP, individuals on the full New State Pension could secure £1,423.60 per month in separate payments starting April. Notably, not all 4.1 million recipients of the New State Pension receive the maximum amount, as it depends on National Insurance Contributions. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to confirm the State Pension and benefits uprating during the Autumn Budget on November 26.
In Scotland, pensioners should transition from claiming Attendance Allowance to applying for PADP, as PADP will replace Attendance Allowance for existing recipients in Scotland by the end of 2025. The support provided through these benefits aims to assist older individuals with daily living expenses, promoting independence and well-being. Various health conditions qualify individuals for support, including disabilities requiring assistance throughout the day or night.
Applicants should consider applying for Attendance Allowance if they struggle with personal tasks, need help or supervision, or experience conditions that impact daily living. Further details and application guidance can be found on the Government website.