State pensioners with caregiving responsibilities can receive an additional £48.15 per week through a claim with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This benefit, which increased by 4.8% on April 6 for the 2026/27 tax year, now averages around £4,300 annually, according to the DWP. It is paid separately from the State Pension and acts as a top-up to regular payments, available even if claimants have other income, savings, or own their home.
Pension Credit Uplift and Carer Support
The April uplift means standard Pension Credit is now worth up to £238 per week for single claimants. However, the DWP provides extra cash to support those caring for another adult. To qualify for the additional £48.15 per week, pensioners must receive Carer's Allowance (or Carer Support Payment in Scotland) or have claimed Carer's Allowance but not receive it because they are getting another higher benefit. In cases where both a pensioner and their partner qualify, the extra amount doubles to £96.30 per week.
Annual Increase and Payment Details
The weekly amount for carers increased by 3.8% for 2026/27, rising from £46.40 to £48.15—a weekly increase of £1.75, or an extra £91 per year. For those receiving the full rate, this translates to £2,503.80 in additional annual payments from the DWP, on top of Pension Credit and the State Pension. If both partners qualify, the amount is double.
Government Confirmation and Additional Benefits
Confirming the 3.8% rise for severe disability additional amounts in November 2025, Baroness Sherlock, Minister of State, stated: "The Standard Minimum Guarantee in Pension Credit will increase by 4.8% in line with average earnings. From April, it will be £238.00 a week for a single pensioner and £363.25 a week for a couple, protecting the incomes of the poorest pensioners." She added that other benefits, including working-age benefits, disability supports, statutory payments, and additional State Pension, would rise by 3.8% in line with the CPI.
Pension Credit also unlocks further financial support, including Housing Benefit, Winter Fuel Payment up to £300, Council Tax discount, free TV licence for those aged 75+, £150 off winter energy bills via the Warm Home Discount, and help with NHS dental treatment, glasses, and transport costs.
DWP Guidance on Carer Extra Amount
In May 2026 guidance, the DWP explained: "Your customer may get this extra amount of £48.15 a week if they (or their partner) are getting Carer's Allowance or Carer Support Payment, or have claimed it and would be getting it if not for a higher contributory benefit. If each partner satisfies a condition, the extra amount is doubled. When Carer's Allowance stops, the extra amount continues for eight weeks, but stops immediately if Carer's Allowance already continued for eight weeks after the cared-for person's death. For Carer Support Payment, this period is extended to 12 weeks."
