Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. Couples must both be over State Pension Age. Pension Credit can also give you access to housing costs such as rent or service charges.
Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension and comes in two parts depending on your age and circumstances (Guaranteed Pension Credit & Saving Pension Credit).
You can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.
To be eligible for the government’s Winter Fuel Allowance this year, you must have applied for Pension Credit before 21 December 2024.
How much could I get?
Guaranteed Pension Credit is worth, on average, £3,900 a year. It could top up your weekly household income to:
- £218.15 if you’re single
- £332.95 if you have a partners
There are additional top up amounts if you’re a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person.
You can use the Pension Credit calculator to find out if you’re eligible or check our benefit calculator.
If you turned State Pension Age before 6 April 2016 you might be entitled to Savings Pension Credit. Use our benefit calculator to check.
What else could I get if I claim Pension Credit?
If you get Pension Credit you can also get other help, such as:
- the Winter Fuel Payment
- help with heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme and Cold Weather Payment
- Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
- support for Mortgage Interest if you own the property you live in
- a Council Tax discount
- a free TV Licence if you’re aged 75 or over
- help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments
- a discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you’re moving house
*some of the above only apply to Guaranteed Pension Credit.
How do I apply?
You can apply for Pension Credit online
You can also call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234
What information do I need to apply?
You’ll need the following information about you and your partner if you have one:
- National Insurance number
- Information about any income, savings and investments you have
- Information about your income, savings and investments on the date you want to backdate your application to (usually 3 months ago or the date you reached State Pension age if this is sooner)
- You’ll also need your bank account details. Depending on how you apply, you may also be asked for your bank or building society name, sort code and account number.
How do I find out more?
- visiting www.gov.uk/pension-credit or call 0800 99 1234
- visit our cost of living support page
- speak to your Neighbourhood Coordinator
