Pension Credit is one of the most valuable benefits in the UK — and one of the most missed. Hundreds of thousands of older people who qualify never claim it, often because they assume they "have too much" or "don't need it". The average award is about £4,300 a year, and it opens the door to a string of other benefits worth even more.
DWP publishes how much Pension Credit goes unclaimed in every constituency in Great Britain — £1.91bn a year in total. See the figure for your area →
Quick facts
- Worth
- Average award ~£4,300 a year
- Who
- Over State Pension age, on a low income
- Unlocks
- Free TV licence (75+), heating help, Council Tax & housing support
- Where
- gov.uk/pension-credit or the claim line
Who qualifies
You may qualify if you (and your partner, if you have one) are over State Pension age and on a low income. It "tops up" your weekly income to a guaranteed minimum. Crucially, having some savings or a small private pension doesn't automatically rule you out — which is exactly why so many people wrongly assume they're not eligible and never check.
How much you'll get
Pension Credit tops your weekly income up to £238 if you're single, or £363.25 for a couple. If your income is below that, the difference is roughly what you'd get — which is why it is worth checking even if you think you are only a little short.
There are two parts — Guarantee Credit (the top-up above) and, for some, Savings Credit (a small extra for those who saved for retirement). You don't need to work out which applies — the claim process does it for you. Across everyone receiving it, the average award is about £4,300 a year.
Top-up figures checked against gov.uk on 3 September 2026. You may get more than the figures above if you are a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child.
How to apply, step by step
Check eligibility in minutes
Use the free calculator on gov.uk/pension-credit — it gives an instant indication without any commitment.
Gather a few details
National Insurance number, information about income, savings and investments, and bank details for payment.
Make the claim
Apply online, or call the Pension Credit claim line — phone is often easiest for older relatives, and you can apply on someone's behalf with their permission.
Backdate it
A claim can usually be backdated by up to three months if you were eligible then — so don't delay, but do ask about backdating.
Claim the extras
Once awarded, apply for the free TV licence (75+), and check Council Tax and housing support — the credit unlocks them.
Common questions
I have savings — am I ruled out?
Can I claim for my mum or dad?
Does it affect my State Pension?
Check the official sources
This guide is general information, not financial advice. Rates and rules change — always confirm current details on GOV.UK before you claim.
Keep going
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