Hundreds of thousands of pensioners across Great Britain are failing to claim Pension Credit, a benefit that could provide nearly £4,000 in additional support over the coming year. Recent figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) suggest that around 880,000 eligible older people are not receiving the means-tested benefit, which is currently claimed by nearly 1.4 million individuals.
Many pensioners mistakenly believe that owning a home or having savings disqualifies them from the benefit, but even a small award of £1 per week can unlock further help with housing costs, heating bills, and Council Tax. The DWP has confirmed that nearly 78 per cent of new claims are processed within 50 working days, meaning a claim made in August could result in first payments by mid-October.
Pension Credit comes in two forms: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit. To qualify for Guarantee Credit, a person must be of State Pension age (66) and have a weekly income below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple. These amounts may be higher for those with disabilities, caring responsibilities, or certain housing costs. The full New State Pension is currently £221.20 per week, while the Basic State Pension is £169.50.
Changes to Winter Fuel Payment eligibility mean that Pension Credit claimants will automatically qualify for the up to £300 payment. Mixed-age couples—where one partner is of State Pension age and the other is under—are now treated as a working-age couple for means-tested benefits, meaning they cannot claim Pension Credit until both reach State Pension age.
Eligible pensioners can use the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK to check their entitlement and get an estimate. Alternatively, they can call the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm). Independent Age also offers free, confidential advice on 0800 319 6789 or via email at helpline@independentage.org.
