If you’re over State Pension age and struggling to make ends meet, you might be entitled to Pension Credit — a benefit designed to top up your income and help with living costs.
It’s one of the most underclaimed benefits in the UK, yet it can make a real difference, not only by increasing your income but also by unlocking other valuable entitlements such as Housing Benefit, Council Tax reduction, and even a free TV licence.
Here’s everything you need to know about Pension Credit, including how much you can get, who’s eligible, and how to claim it.
What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age who have a low income. It’s separate from the State Pension and comes in two parts:
Guarantee Credit — ensures your income doesn’t fall below a minimum level.
Savings Credit — provides an extra payment if you’ve saved some money towards your retirement.
Even if you receive a State Pension, you may still qualify for Pension Credit depending on your total income and savings.
How Much Pension Credit Could You Get?
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The amount of Pension Credit you receive depends on your income, savings, and household situation.
Pension Credit Rates for the 2025–26 Financial Year
| Type of Pension Credit | Who It’s For | Weekly Amount (2025–26) |
|---|---|---|
| Guarantee Credit | People whose income is below the minimum level | £227.10 (single) / £346.60 (couple) |
| Savings Credit | People who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016 | Up to £17.30 (single) / £19.36 (couple) |
| Carer Addition | Claimants who care for someone 35+ hours per week | £46.40 per week |
| Severe Disability Addition | Claimants receiving certain disability benefits | £82.90 per week |
Am I Eligible for Pension Credit?
Eligibility depends on your age, income, and savings.
1. Guarantee Credit Eligibility
You may qualify if:
You’ve reached State Pension age (currently 66).
Your weekly income is below:
- £227.10 if you’re single
- £346.60 if you’re a couple
You might still qualify if your income is higher but you:
- Are a carer
- Have a severe disability
- Pay housing costs such as service charges
- Are responsible for a child or young person
2. Savings Credit Eligibility
You may qualify if:
- You reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016, or
- You’re part of a couple and both partners reached State Pension age before that date.
There’s no savings limit, but savings over £10,000 can reduce how much you receive.
If you’re part of a mixed-age couple (one under and one over State Pension age), you must usually claim Universal Credit until you both reach State Pension age.
How Do I Claim Pension Credit?
You can claim Pension Credit online, by phone, or by post.
Claim Online
Apply directly on the official GOV.UK Pension Credit service. You can apply if you already receive State Pension and there are no children included in your claim.
Claim by Phone
Call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm). A specialist adviser can complete the application for you.
Have the following ready:
- Your National Insurance number
- Bank account details
- Information about income, pensions, and savings
- Details of housing costs (mortgage, rent, or service charges)
- Your partner’s details if you live together
You can also get local help from Age UK offices, which offer free benefit advice for older people.
What Other Help Can You Get Through Pension Credit?
Claiming Pension Credit doesn’t just increase your weekly income — it also opens the door to a range of additional benefits and financial support.
Health-Related Benefits
- Free NHS dental treatment
- Help with the cost of glasses and travel to hospital
- Carer Addition (up to £46.40/week)
- Severe Disability Addition (up to £82.90/week)
Housing and Living Support
- Council Tax reduction (often full exemption)
- Full Housing Benefit if you rent your home
- Help with mortgage interest if you own your home
Other Benefits
- Winter Fuel Payment (automatic if you’ve reached State Pension age)
- Cold Weather Payment during periods of severe cold
- Free TV licence if you’re aged 75 or over
Even if you’ve been turned down before, it’s worth reapplying each year, as the eligibility rules and thresholds can change.
FAQ: Pension Credit in the UK
What is the difference between Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit?
Guarantee Credit ensures your income meets a minimum level, while Savings Credit rewards those who have made small savings or additional pension contributions before 2016.
Can I get Pension Credit if I have savings?
Yes. There’s no upper limit, but savings over £10,000 may reduce your weekly payment.
Can I work and still get Pension Credit?
Yes. If your income from work is low enough to keep you below the minimum threshold, you may still qualify.
Can Pension Credit affect my Housing Benefit or Council Tax reduction?
No — in fact, Pension Credit can make you eligible for full Housing Benefit and Council Tax support.
How long does it take to get a Pension Credit decision?
Applications typically take around 5–6 weeks, but payments can sometimes be backdated by up to 3 months.
Need help finding a care home?
Senior Home Plus offers free personalized guidance to help you find a care facility that suits your health needs, budget, and preferred location in the UK.
Call us at 0203 608 0055 to get expert assistance today.
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