Guide to benefits in the UK | 2025

What benefits can I claim?

If you are struggling with the cost of living, you may be able to claim benefits that will help you financially. This simple guide lists some of the benefits you can claim in the UK and how much the rates are.

All the following amounts are applicable for the 2025/26 tax year.

Local authority funding thresholds

The amount of capital that determines if you need to pay towards home care fees – these thresholds are different in some countries for care home fees.

England	Higher limit: £23,250 Lower limit: £14,250
Scotland	Higher limit: £37,750 Lower limit: £20,250 In Scotland nursing and personal care is free for anybody assessed as needing it. The limits apply to any care that falls outside of this.
Wales	£24,000 In Wales you’ll pay a maximum of £100 per week if you have capital above this limit – local authorities cover any additional costs.
Northern Ireland	Higher limit: £23,250 Lower limit: £14,250

Basic State Pension

For men born before 6 April 1951 and women born before 6 April 1953.

£176.45 per week

New State Pension

For men born on or after 6 April 1951 and women born on or after 6 April 1953.

£230.25 per week

Pension Credit

Pension Credit tops up your weekly income to £227.10 if you’re single or £346.60 jointly if you’re in a couple.

You may also get:

Check the Pension Credit calculator to find out what you could be entitled to.

Winter Fuel Payment

For people born on or before 22 September 1959. You also need to have an income of less than £35,000 to be eligible. HMRC will take the money back if you are over the threshold or you can opt out of receiving the payment.

Between £100-300

Warm Home Discount

Discount on your energy bill.

Up to £150

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) & Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

If you are below state pension age.

Daily Living component

Mobility component

Attendance Allowance

If you are above state pension age.

Constant Attendance Allowance

If you claim Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit or a War Disablement Pension.

Carer’s Allowance

If you spend at least 35 hours per week caring for someone.

£83.30 per week

Adult Disability Payment

Replacing PIP in Scotland.

Daily Living component

Mobility component

Disability Premiums

An additional benefit if you have a disability.

Employment and Support Allowance

Applicable if you are living with a disability or illness that affects your ability to work.

Universal Credit

If you’re not working or are on a low income.

Single claimants under 25	£316.98 per month
Single claimants aged 25 or over	£400.14 per month
Joint claimants both under 25 (but below state pension age)	£497.55 per month
Joint claimants with either aged 25 or over (but below state pension age)	£628.10 per month

Council tax reduction

A discount on your council tax payments if you’re on a low income.

The amount of discount will differ depending on your circumstances. Click here to apply.

Bereavement Support Payment (BSP)

Higher rate

Applicable if you are eligible for Child Benefit – whether or not you claim it – or if you were pregnant when your partner died.

Lower rate