The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed plans to roll out a new service from autumn 2026 that will enable state pensioners to apply for pensioner Housing Benefit and Pension Credit through a single, streamlined process. The initiative aims to simplify access to financial support and increase benefit uptake among eligible older people.
New Joined-Up Service for Pensioners
The DWP announced that the new service will begin with an online claim channel for “a small cohort of invited customers” from autumn 2026. Over time, the service will be expanded to include applications via post, phone, and in-person appointments. The department stated that the goal is to make it easier for pensioners to claim additional financial support and to ensure more people receive the benefits they are entitled to.
To develop the service, the DWP has been collaborating with local authorities, including an established working group of local authority representatives and Housing Benefit processors. Regular project updates are being shared to ensure the service works effectively for both customers and staff.
How Pension Credit and Housing Benefit Work
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people of State Pension age on a low income. It tops up weekly income to £238 for single claimants or £363.25 for couples. Claimants may also qualify for additional help, such as Housing Benefit if they rent their home. Housing Benefit assists with rent payments for those on a low income or claiming benefits, and the amount depends on whether the property is rented privately or from a council.
Currently, pensioners can apply for Housing Benefit as part of their Pension Credit application, with the Pension Service forwarding claim details to the local council. The new service will integrate these processes more seamlessly.
Operational Responsibilities Remain Unchanged
The DWP emphasised that the new service will not replace existing operational responsibilities for benefit award decisions. Housing Benefit will continue to be administered by local authorities, while Pension Credit will remain under DWP control. The department reassured that local authorities have been involved in research, testing, and feedback to ensure the service meets the needs of both customers and staff.
According to the DWP update on July 14, 2026: “Work is ongoing to deliver a new joined-up service for customers to apply for pensioner Housing Benefit and Pension Credit together. Through bringing together the administration of pensioner Housing Benefit and Pension Credit, we are designing a service which is easy to use to enable more pensioners to receive the benefits they are entitled to.”
Future Expansion Plans
The DWP confirmed that the service will iterate based on user feedback and testing, eventually supporting all customers across all channels. The long-term aim is to allow pensioners to access the service in the way that best suits their needs, thereby increasing the uptake of financial support.
