Pension Credit: who's missing out and how to check you qualify

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) estimates that 62% of pensioner families entitled to Pension Credit claimed it in 2024/25, the same share as the year before. That leaves up to 900,000 pensioner families entitled to Pension Credit but not claiming it, with up to £2.4 billion going unclaimed in a single year. On average that is around £2,500 a year for each family that doesn't claim. These figures cover Great Britain.

Why so many people miss out

A common reason is assuming you don't qualify. Owning your home, having modest savings or a small workplace pension does not rule you out on its own. Pension Credit has no savings limit, although savings over £10,000 are treated as producing some income, which can reduce the amount you get.

DWP's figures also show who is least likely to claim. Among pensioner couples only 50% of those entitled claim, compared with 65% of single women and 62% of single men. And while 70% of those entitled to the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit claim it, only 34% of those entitled to the Savings Credit-only part do.

What you could get

Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income to £238 if you're single or £363.25 if you're a couple (2026/27 rates). Extra amounts can be added for severe disability (£86.05 a week), caring responsibilities (£48.15 a week) and dependent children. Savings Credit, a smaller extra payment of up to £17.96 (single) or £20.10 (couple) a week, is only for people who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016. Your actual award depends on your own circumstances.

Why even a small award is worth claiming

Pension Credit also works as a gateway to other help. Claiming even a small amount can unlock a free TV licence for people aged 75 and over, worth £180 a year, along with help with NHS costs such as dental treatment and glasses, help with Council Tax and Cold Weather Payments. If you only receive the Savings Credit element, check with TV Licensing before relying on a free licence.

How to claim

• Online at gov.uk/pension-credit
• By phone on the Pension Credit claim line, 0800 99 1234
• By post, using a form requested by phone
• You can start a claim up to 4 months before you reach State Pension age, and a successful claim can be backdated by up to 3 months
• In Northern Ireland, claims go through the Department for Communities (nidirect.gov.uk)