Pension age welfare rights

You may not be aware that as a visually-impaired older person there are many benefits which you may be entitled to.

60 or over

If you need help from other people to look after yourself because of your sight problems, and you are under 65, you may be entitled to Disability Living Allowance.

If you have a low income, you may be entitled to Pension Credit guarantee credit .

If you live in rented accommodation you may be entitled to Housing Benefit.

If you have to pay Council Tax, you may be entitled to Council Tax Benefit and/or the Council Tax Disability Reduction.

If you have to care for your partner or spouse, or they care for you, they/you may be entitled to Carers Allowance.

You are also entitled to free prescriptions, and winter fuel payments. For more information, visit www.direct.gov.uk

If you are registered blind, you can claim Blind Person’s Tax Allowance. For more information you can contact us through the RNIB Helpline by calling 0303 123 9999 or you can email your local Action Welfare Rights Team .

65 or over

If you need help from other people to look after yourself because of your sight problems, you may be entitled to Attendance Allowance . Please note that you cannot get Attendance Allowance if you already get Disability Living Allowance.

If you have a low income but have some savings, you may be entitled to Pension Credit savings credit.

The Benefits Calculator on the DWP website can also help you find out which benefits and tax credits you may be entitled to.