DWP handing £86-a-week extra to state pensioners on 7 benefits
State pensioners with severe disabilities can now receive an extra £86.05 per week from the Department for Work and Pensions through Pension Credit following a significant boost to benefit rates this year.
The uplift comes as Pension Credit rates increased by 4.8% in line with the State Pension at the start of the new tax year on 6 April. This means eligible single pensioners can now boost their weekly income to £238, or £363.25 for couples, with those who qualify for the additional disability payment receiving the extra £86.05 on top.
State pensioners can receive the additional £86.05 per week if they get any of the following: Attendance Allowance, the middle or highest rate of the care component of Disability Living Allowance, the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment, Armed Forces Independence Payment, the daily living component of Adult Disability Payment, Pension Age Disability Payment, or the middle or highest rate of the care component of Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance.
Over a full year, this equates to £4,474.60 in extra payments from the DWP in addition to Pension Credit. Baroness Sherlock, Minister of State, said: "The Standard Minimum Guarantee in Pension Credit will increase by 4.8% in line with the increase in average earnings. From April it will be 238.00 a week for a single pensioner and 363.25 a week for a couple ensuring the incomes of the poorest pensioners are protected."
Those newly reaching State Pension age in July can begin making a claim if eligible and will receive the new higher rates immediately. While existing Pension Credit claimants with disabilities have already benefited from the payment increase since 6 April, those becoming eligible from July onwards will gain access to the enhanced rates.
The boost extends beyond disability support, with other State Pension and benefit rates increasing by 3.8% in line with the consumer prices index, including Pension Credit Savings Credit maximum amounts.