Pension Credit
What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit that helps people over State Pension age on a low income by topping up their weekly income.
Who can get it?
You could qualify if:
– You have reached State Pension age.
– You live in England, Scotland or Wales
– Your weekly income is below the amounts shown below.
Your situation| Weekly income below
Single person| £238.00
Couple (combined)| £363.25
You may still qualify if your income is higher, for example if you:
– are a carer
– have a disability
– have certain housing costs
– have savings or a private pension
How much could you get? (2026 Figures)
If you qualify:
Guarantee Credit can top up your weekly income to at least:
– £238.00 if you are single.
– £363.25 if you have a partner.
You may also receive extra amounts, for example:
– £86.05 a week if you qualify for the Severe Disability Addition.
– £48.15 a week if you qualify for the Carer Addition.
If you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016, you may also qualify for Savings Credit worth up to:
– £17.96 a week if you are single.
– £20.10 a week if you have a partner.
Extra Help you can get with Pension Credit
If you receive the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit, you may also be entitled to:
– Help with NHS costs, including free NHS dental treatment, free prescriptions, eye tests, glasses and travel to hospital for NHS treatment (if eligible).
– A free TV Licence if you are aged 75 or over.
– Cold Weather Payments during periods of very cold weather.
– The Warm Home Discount, if you meet your energy supplier’s eligibility criteria.
– Council Tax Reduction (through your local authority).
– Housing Benefit if you rent your home, or Support for Mortgage Interest if you own your home and qualify.
These additional forms of support can make a significant difference to your household budget
Applying
Where to apply
What you need to apply
- Online: www.gov.uk/pension-credit
- By phone: Call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800991234
- By post: Ask the Pension Service to send you a form
- Your National Insurance Number
- Your bank account details
- Information about any savings, pensions or investments
- Details of your housing costs