Online guidance from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on GOV.UK explains that if someone of State Pension age on a low income receives Attendance Allowance or the middle or highest rate care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Adult Disability Payment (ADP), they may be entitled to extra Pension Credit of £81.50 per week, some £326 every four-week pay period.
Similarly, a couple claiming Pension Credit where one person is claiming a disability benefit, will also receive an extra £81.50 each week (£326 per month). If someone is paid Carer’s Allowance they may be entitled to extra weekly Pension Credit of £45.
60. They may also get this extra Pension Credit if they are entitled to Carer’s Allowance but are not being paid it, or being paid it at a lower amount than normal, because they are being paid a higher amount by another, income-related benefit such as the State Pension - more commonly referred to as an underlying entitlement. Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit that gives people extra money to help with their living costs if they are over State Pension age and on a low income.
Older people, or friends and family, can quickly check their eligibility and get an estimate of what they may receive by using the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK here. Alternatively, pensioners can contact the Pension Credit helpline directly to make a claim on 0800 99 1234 - lines are open 8am to 6pm, Monday to F.
