Pension Credit

Could you be entitled to Pension Credit?

If you're over State Pension age and living on a low income, you could be entitled to extra financial support through Pension Credit.

Pension Credit is a benefit designed to help older people with their living costs. You may qualify even if you already receive your State Pension, have savings or other income, or own your own home. Depending on your circumstances, you may also be entitled to additional amounts if you're a carer or disabled, as well as help towards certain service charges and ground rent.

Claiming Pension Credit could also open the door to other financial support. This includes Council Tax Support, Housing Benefit if you're renting, a free TV Licence if you're aged 75 or over, the Warm Home Discount and help with certain health costs, such as dental treatment.

How to apply

Applying for Pension Credit is free and can be done online through the official GOV.UK website or by telephone.

• Online: gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim
• By phone: 0800 99 1234

When applying, you'll need some information about yourself and your partner, if you have one. This includes your National Insurance number and details of any income, savings and investments.

You may also be able to have your claim backdated by up to three months, meaning you could receive additional payments if you were eligible during that period.

Be aware of scams

It's important to remember that applying for Pension Credit is completely free. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will never ask you to pay a fee to make a claim.

Always use the official GOV.UK website or the official Pension Credit claim line when applying. Be cautious of unexpected calls, messages or emails asking for money or personal information, and never share your bank details with someone you don't trust.

If you think you might be eligible, it's worth checking. You could be missing out on financial support you're entitled to.