If you’re over State Pension age and on a low income, you could be missing out on a major financial top-up. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) says Pension Credit can boost income by around £4,300 per year — yet 760,000 eligible pensioners still haven’t claimed it.
With the cost of living still high, this extra support could make a big difference. Whether you’re single, married or in a partnership, here’s everything you need to know about qualifying, claiming, and what else you could unlock with a Pension Credit award.
Boost
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit designed to help people over State Pension age top up their income. Nearly 1.4 million pensioners already receive it, but thousands more are still missing out — often due to common misunderstandings.
Many believe that owning a home or having modest savings means they won’t qualify. But that’s simply not true. Even if you only qualify for a £1 weekly award, it could open the door to a whole package of extra support — including housing help, heating bill assistance, and Council Tax reductions.
So, how much could you really get?
Income
To qualify for Pension Credit, your weekly income needs to be below the threshold set by the DWP:
| Household Type | Weekly Income Limit (2025/26) |
|---|---|
| Single pensioner | Less than £227.10 |
| Pensioner couple | Less than £346.00 |
If your income is below these levels, you could qualify for Guarantee Credit, the main part of Pension Credit that tops up your weekly income.
There’s also Savings Credit, a separate part for those who have some savings or a private pension. You can still receive this even if your income is slightly above the minimum threshold.
Here’s what that support could look like over a year:
| Type of Support | Average Annual Amount |
|---|---|
| Guarantee Credit | Up to £4,300 |
| Savings Credit | Varies depending on income and savings |
| Extra Support (utilities, council tax, etc.) | Potential hundreds more |
Mixed Age
It’s important to know that mixed age couples (where one partner is under State Pension age) are treated differently.
Since May 2019, these couples are considered working-age households when it comes to benefits. That means they can’t claim Pension Credit until both partners reach State Pension age.
Before that change, a household could claim as soon as one partner reached State Pension age — but that’s no longer the case. Now, couples must wait until both meet the age requirement.
Application
You can start your claim for Pension Credit up to four months before reaching State Pension age. If you’ve already reached that age, you can apply at any time — but the claim can only be backdated for three months, so don’t delay.
What you’ll need:
- Your National Insurance number
- Details about income, savings, and investments
- Bank account information (if applying by phone or post)
- If backdating your claim, your financial details from the backdate period
Here’s how to claim:
| Method | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Online | Use the GOV.UK website (if no children in claim) |
| Phone | Call 0800 99 1234 (Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm) |
| Post | Request and send a paper form by mail |
Speed
The DWP says most new claims are now processed in under 10 weeks, with nearly 78% completed within their target timeframe. That means if you apply now, you could get your first payment and backpay by the end of January.
Even a small award unlocks further benefits. Here’s what else you might qualify for if you receive Pension Credit:
- Free TV licence (if over 75)
- Housing Benefit (if renting)
- Cold Weather Payments
- Help with NHS costs (like dental and optical care)
- Council Tax reductions
Action
Many people aren’t even aware they could be entitled to Pension Credit — especially those who own a home, live with a partner, or have small savings. That’s why the DWP is continuing its awareness campaign through the end of the current financial year.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s quick and easy to check. You can use the free Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK, or call the helpline directly for help making a claim.
Even if you’re only eligible for a small amount, it’s still worth applying — not just for the extra money, but for everything else it gives access to.
FAQs
How much is Pension Credit worth?
On average, it can boost income by up to £4,300 per year.
Can I claim if I own my home?
Yes, owning a home does not disqualify you.
How do I apply for Pension Credit?
Online via GOV.UK or by calling 0800 99 1234.
What’s the income limit for couples?
£346 per week for the 2025/26 financial year.
Can I backdate my claim?
Yes, up to three months if eligible during that time.
