Martin Lewis says state pensioners can claim £5,644 payout which 'isn't means tested'

Martin Lewis has claimed more than 1 million people state pensioners could be eligible for a £5,644 payout. The Money Saving Expert shared in his weekly newsletter that if you’re of state pension age – 66 years old – and you’re disabled or ill, you could be eligible for Attendance Allowance.

The "massively under-claimed" benefit is for those who are older and need daily living help and is not means tested – so your finances are irrelevant. The BBC and ITV star explained: "Financial support for many pensioners has been cut this year with the means-testing of Winter Fuel Payments, making it even more important that those who need help get it.

"Roughly a year ago, we launched our Attendance Allowance (AA) guide and awareness campaign, and successes have flooded in since. Yet it still remains massively underclaimed, and the risk is up to 1.1 million eligible pensioners miss out, according to Policy in Practice's 2023 calculations.

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"So whether it's you, or someone you know who may qualify, take two minutes to read this. Last week, Andrea sent us this email..." Mr Lewis then shared Andrea's words, with the Money Saving Expert reader saying: "Following your advice re: Attendance Allowance, I submitted my application in June and within 2 weeks I was thrilled when I received a £1,259 lump sum backdated 3 months.

"I now get £290 every four weeks, which helps to pay for my mobility needs. I do not have extreme needs, so never thought I'd qualify, but I do. Thanks for all your work." If you fit the criteria to claim this benefit, there are two separate rates available, depending on your circumstances.

If you need help either during the day or night then you will be able to claim the lower rate of £73 per week – that’s £3,778 per year. If you need help during both the day and night, or you have less than a year to live, you’re entitled to a higher rate of £109 per week – that’s £5,644 per year.