Make sure you're not missing out on Pension Credit

This week is Pension Credit Awareness Week. We’re raising awareness of Pension Credit as data shows that some people are eligible but not receiving it. People of State Pension age may be entitled to Pension Credit even though they have modest savings, a retirement income or their own home.

An award of Pension Credit can also provide access to a range of other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax, heating costs, heating bills, and for those aged 75 and over, a free TV licence. If someone you know is over State Pension age, you should encourage them to find out more. 

You can use this Pension Credit calculator to find out how much Pension Credit someone could get – without giving any personal details. You can also get in touch with our specialist benefits team to help assess your eligibility. 


What is Pension Credit? 

Pension Credit tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £201.05 a week for single pensioners or £306.85 for couples. It is a tax-free payment for those who:

  • have reached Pension Credit qualifying age, which is State Pension age

  • live in Great Britain

Someone may still get Pension Credit if they:

  • have not paid National Insurance contributions

  • have some savings or a small pension

  • live with their grown-up family

  • own their own home

Assessing Pension Credit eligibility 

There are 4 main questions when considering whether a pensioner may get Pension Credit:

  • How old are they?

  • If they have a partner, how old is their partner?

  • What is their weekly income? Is it less than £201.05 if they are single or £306.85 if they are a couple?

  • Do they have any savings? Have they got less than £10,000?

People who have more income or savings than this may still qualify for Pension Credit. But these questions are a good basic indication of who is likely to qualify.

If they are over 65 and reached their State Pension age before 6 April 2016, they could still qualify for Pension Credit if their weekly income is less than:

  • £240.90 if they are single

  • £351.45 if they are a couple

Talking to loved ones about Pension Credit 

We know that a nudge from a loved one can be a powerful motivator. If you are talking directly to friends and family of people over State Pension age, encourage them to talk about Pension Credit and the other benefits that come with claiming it with people they think may be eligible. 

This can help to open up important conversations that could make a real difference to the lives of your loved ones.

For more information about Pension Credit visit the gov.uk website. 

Danny Brown