What benefits can I claim at 65 in the UK?
At 65 most people are still under State Pension age, which is 66. That means Pension Credit and a new Attendance Allowance claim are usually not available yet. Universal Credit, PIP or Adult Disability Payment, and Council Tax Reduction remain the typical working-age set.
The year between 65 and 66 is when it is worth planning the switch: check whether a mixed-age couple rule applies, and whether you should claim Pension Credit as soon as you reach State Pension age rather than waiting.
Benefits this usually points to
Universal Credit
A monthly payment to help with living costs if you are on a low income, out of work, or cannot work. It can include amounts for housing, children, disability, and caring.
Personal Independence Payment
A benefit to help with extra costs if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability and you have difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around.
Adult Disability Payment
A Scottish benefit that replaced Personal Independence Payment for most adults living in Scotland. It helps with extra costs of disability or a long-term health condition.
Pension Credit
An income-related benefit for people who have reached State Pension age and have a low income. It can also help with housing costs, council tax and other support.
Attendance Allowance
A benefit for people of State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision because of a disability or health condition. It is not means-tested.
Winter Fuel Payment
A yearly tax-free payment to help older people with heating costs. Eligibility has changed in recent years, so always check the current GOV.UK rules before assuming you will get it.
Check what may apply in your circumstances
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.
State Pension is not the same as Pension Credit
State Pension is based on National Insurance. Pension Credit is an income top-up for people who have reached State Pension age and whose income is below the guarantee. You can get both. GOV.UK has calculators for each. Benefit Badger’s check is about means-tested and extra-cost benefits, not your State Pension forecast.
Other circumstances
- What benefits can I claim if I have a disability?
- What benefits can I claim as a carer?
- What benefits can I claim over State Pension age?
- What benefits can I claim on a low income?
- What benefits can I claim if I am unemployed?
- What benefits can I claim as a single parent?
- What benefits can I claim if I am pregnant?
- What benefits can I claim if I rent?
This is independent guidance. Only the relevant government department can confirm eligibility. How we source and verify.