One particular benefit can open the door for a wide range of support (Image: Getty Images)
Pensions Minister Torsten Bell has revealed that an estimated 9.2 million individuals over the age will not receive a of up to £300, as per data published in the OBR Economic and Fiscal Outlook. The Department for Work and Pensions () approximates that around 760,000 elderly people are eligible for Pension Credit but are not claiming it, thereby missing out on annual winter heating aid.
However, pensioners can act now or in the forthcoming months to ensure they don’t miss out on the 2025/26 by submitting a new claim for Pension Credit. New claims processed before the qualifying week, typically the third week in September, will receive the money when automatic payments commence in November.
New applications for Pension Credit are processed within the target timeframe of 50 working days, from initial application to award decision letter. This implies that older individuals on a low income who apply this month could receive their first payment and any arrears by the end of March.
It’s crucial for all elderly people – whether single, married or cohabiting – to ensure they’re claiming all the additional financial support they’re entitled to this year to help boost their income and offset the ongoing crisis. Pension Credit is the most under-claimed benefit and is specifically designed to provide extra financial support for older people on a low income – both singles and couples.
A mere award of £1 per week can open the door to additional support. Here’s a brief overview of the benefit, including who should verify their eligibility, how to do it, potential amounts you could receive and where to find assistance with the application process.
Who is eligible for Pension Credit?
There are two types: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit. To qualify for Guarantee Pension Credit, you must have reached the age, which is currently 66.
Your weekly income should be less than the minimum amount that the UK Government deems necessary for living – £218.15 for an individual and £332.95 for a couple. These figures could be higher if you’re disabled, a carer or have certain housing costs.
The exact sum you’ll receive from the Department for Work and Pensions () depends on your income and savings, including assumed income from savings and capital over £10,000. To determine eligibility for Pension Credit, older individuals or their loved ones can use the online Pension Credit calculator on
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Alternatively, pensioners can directly contact the Pension Credit helpline to make a claim on 0800 99 1234 – lines are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Expert guidance and advice are also available. More information about claiming Pension Credit can be found on
Other help if you get Pension Credit
- Help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments
- Help with your heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme or Winter Fuel Payments
- A discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you are moving house
- Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
- Support for Interest if you own the property you live in
- Council Tax discount
- Free TV licence if you are aged 75 or over
If you qualify for Pension Credit, you may also be eligible for additional assistance.
How to make a claim
To make a claim, you can do so anytime after reaching age but it can only be backdated for three months. This means you could receive up to three months of Pension Credit in your first payment if you were eligible during that period.
You will need your National Insurance number, information about your income, savings and investments, and your bank account details if you’re applying by phone or by post. If you’re backdating your claim, you’ll need details of your income, savings and investments on the date you want your claim to start.
You can apply online if you have already claimed your and there are no children or young people included in your claim. To verify your eligibility, ring the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234 or use the Pension Credit calculator to determine how much you could potentially receive.