The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging older people on low incomes to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, a benefit that can provide an average of over £4,300 in extra annual support. This call comes as nearly 1.4 million pensioners across the UK already receive this crucial financial aid.
Who Can Claim Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit designed to top up the weekly income of people who have reached State Pension age, which is currently 66. It consists of two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.
To qualify for the Guarantee Credit element, your weekly income must be below a specific threshold. For a single person, this is £227.10, and for a couple, it is £346.60. These amounts can be higher if you have a disability, are a carer, or have certain housing costs.
Savings Credit is only available to those who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016. To be eligible, a single person must have a qualifying weekly income of at least £198.27, while a couple needs £314.34.
It is a common misconception that owning your home or having savings automatically disqualifies you. The DWP encourages everyone to check, as even a small award of just £1 per week can unlock significant additional help.
Fast-Tracked Claims and Urgent Winter Support
The DWP has confirmed that it is processing claims efficiently, with nearly 78% of new Pension Credit applications being completed within the target of 50 working days (10 weeks). This means an application made now could see the first payment, including any backdated arrears, arrive by mid-February.
This timely support is vital as Britain faces cold winter weather and high energy bills. Official data shows that in 2021, around 3.3 million people aged 65 and over in England and Wales were living alone, many of whom may be struggling on a low income.
How to Apply and the Extra Perks
Applying for Pension Credit is straightforward. Older people, or their relatives, can use the free online calculator on the GOV.UK website to check eligibility and get an estimate. Claims can be made online, by calling the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm), or by post.
Successfully claiming Pension Credit acts as a gateway to a host of other valuable benefits. These can include:
- Housing Benefit or support with mortgage interest
- Help with Council Tax, potentially up to a 100% discount
- Cold Weather Payments and the Winter Fuel Payment
- Free NHS dental treatment, glasses, and transport for hospital appointments
- A free TV licence for those aged 75 and over
With the full New State Pension at £230.25 a week and the Basic State Pension at £176.45, this additional support is essential for helping pensioners manage the ongoing cost of living crisis.
