If you're over State Pension age and on a low income, you could be entitled to Pension Credit.
Pension Credit is a benefit that can top up your weekly income and give you access to extra financial support. If you're eligible, it could help you with everyday living costs and open the door to other benefits too.
Thousands of older people miss out on Pension Credit every year because they don’t think they'll qualify. Even if you're already receiving your State Pension, it's still worth checking.
What extra help could you get?
If you receive Pension Credit, you may also be able to get support with:
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax discount
- Heating costs, including the Warm Home Discount Scheme
- Cold Weather Payments
- NHS costs such as dental treatment, glasses and travel to hospital appointments
- A free TV licence if you're aged 75 or over
Some people can also receive extra Pension Credit if they:
- Care for someone
- Have a disability or a long-term health condition
- Are responsible for a child or young person
Who can claim?
You may be able to claim Pension Credit if you:
- Have reached State Pension age
- Have a low income
Even if you think your income is slightly too high, it's still worth checking. Many people qualify because of their individual circumstances, including caring responsibilities, disabilities or certain housing costs.
Check if you're eligible
You can use the government's Pension Credit calculator to find out if you might qualify and get an estimate of how much you could receive.
How to apply
You can apply:
-
Online at Pension Credit: How to claim - GOV.UK
-
By phone on 0800 99 1234
-
By post using a Pension Credit claim form, which you or a family member can request by calling the DWP’s claim line on 0800 99 1234. You can also download and print a form here.
Applications can be backdated by up to three months if you were eligible during that time, so it's worth applying even if you've already reached State Pension age.
We’re here to help
If you'd like help applying or more advice about benefits and managing your money, our Advice team is here to help. Fill out the form on our Contact Us page and we’ll be in touch to chat about how we can support you.