Millions of older people across the UK are entitled to Pension Credit to top up their income. Are you one of the 880,000 people that are missing out?

If you’re eligible, you could receive an average of £75 a week to help with day-to-day living costs, as well as access to other benefits.

How do I know if I'm entitled to Pension Credit?

Whether you’re eligible depends on your income, but it’s worth applying even if you don’t think you’ll get much. You can apply if you’re of pension age, which is currently 66 years old, or if you’re 65 and four months or less away from turning 66.

As a general rule, you’re entitled to Pension Credit if you’re single with a weekly income under roughly £218 or a weekly income under £332 if you’re a couple and both of pension age. You might also be entitled to more than you think if you’re a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person.

What are the benefits of checking if I'm eligible?

If you’re entitled to anything above £1 per week of Pension Credit, you also qualify for:

  • Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
  • Winter Fuel Payment (worth up to £300 a year)
  • Council tax discounts (typically worth up to £1,000 a year)
  • Free TV license if you’re aged 75 or above (worth £169.50)
  • Help with the costs of some NHS services, including dental treatment, glasses, and transport costs for hospital appointments
  • Help with heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme

You might have seen recent news coverage about the Winter Fuel Payment, which is changing soon. This year, only pensioners who are entitled to Pension Credit or other benefits will receive the Winter Fuel Payment. However, 880,000 people who are entitled to Pension Credit haven’t claimed it yet, and it’s predicted that 90% of those people will miss out this winter. Don’t miss out - to get this year’s Winter Fuel Payment, you must apply for Pension Credit before 21st December.

How do I find out if I’m eligible?

Finding out if you’re eligible for Pension Credit is simple. You don’t have to fill in a form, all you need to do is call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234 (textphone: 0800 169 0133) or visit gov.uk/pension-credit.

If you need any advice or help claiming Pension Credit, or if you’re struggling to make ends meet but have been told you aren’t eligible for Pension Credit, please get in touch with our Advice Team here or by emailing AdviceTeamReferrals@southwayhousing.co.uk and they’ll be happy to help.