Some over-65s and pensioners could receive a cash boost from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), as benefit rates increased in April. Pension Credit, a means-tested benefit that tops up income for those over State Pension age living on a low income, is among the benefits seeing a rise.
The State Pension is available to those who have reached the official State Pension age and built up at least 10 qualifying years on their National Insurance record. The State Pension age is currently 66, rising gradually to 67 between April 2026 and April 2028.
Pension Credit rates rise by 4.8%
The minimum guarantee will increase by 4.8%. The single allowance went from £227.10 to £238.00 a week, while the couple allowance rose from £346.60 to £363.25 a week. This could bring a person's yearly Pension Credit income to £4,300, as someone with a low income could be receiving £82.70 a month in Pension Credit.
Winter Fuel Payment up to £300
Meanwhile, the DWP will send letters to state pensioners for automatic payments of up to £300 from October. The £300 is a Winter Fuel Payment to help with heating costs during the colder months, with most people set to receive this automatically if eligible.
The DWP has confirmed that pensioners in England, Wales or Northern Ireland born on or before June 27, 1960, could get between £100 and £300 to help pay heating bills this winter. Pensioners with a total individual annual income over £35,000 will have their Winter Fuel Payment automatically taken back by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), either by a change in tax code or by adding the amount to Self Assessment tax returns.
Letters and qualifying week
The DWP said: "You'll get a letter in October or November telling you how much Winter Fuel Payment you'll get, if you're eligible. If you do not get a letter but think you're eligible, check if you need to make a claim."
The amount you get is based on when you were born and your circumstances between 21 to 27 September 2026, called the 'qualifying week'. Any money you get will not affect your other benefits.
