Pension Credit
Check if you're eligible for Pension Credit using our information guide
Pension Credit
Take-up of Pension Credit has been low historically and it is estimated that 123,000 eligible households in Scotland are not claiming the payment.
This page explains what Pension Credit is, who is eligible, and how to claim it.
If you would like any more information, you can phone the Age Scotland helpline for free on 0800 12 44 222 or download our Pension Credit information guide.
Want more information on Pension Credit?
Download and read our free guide to Pension Credit. Call our helpline on 0800 12 44 222 if you want to speak to an advisor for a free entitlement check.
Free benefits workshops
Every year, millions of pounds of benefits go unclaimed by older people in Scotland. We want to change that.
Our benefit workshops aim to lift the lid on the benefit system, making it easier for older people, and those who support them, to claim the money they are entitled to.
What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age designed to help with the cost of living.
If you have a low income and modest savings, Pension Credit can top up your income.
Receiving Pension Credit can also entitle you to other financial support and assistance with other costs - including those related to housing, energy and health.
Guarantee and Savings Credit
Pension Credit is made up of two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit
Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level. From April 2022 it is £182.60 if you're single or £278.70 if you're a couple. These rates may be higher if you have a severe disability, are a carer or have certain housing costs.
Savings Credit is extra money if you've got some savings or your income is higher than the basic State Pension. You could get up to £14.48 extra per week if you're single or £16.20 if you're a couple.
Who is Eligible?
Guarantee Credit
You may be eligible for Guarantee Credit if:
- You have reached State Pension age or if you are a couple, you have both reached State Pension age. This is now the same for men and women (66) and will increase to 67 by 2028. You can check your qualifying age using the UK Government's State Pension age calculator.
- Your weekly income (from April 2022) is less than £182.60 if you are single, or £278.70 for couples.
- If your income is higher than this, you may still get some Pension Credit if you have a severe disability, are a carer or you have certain housing costs.
- You have capital of £10,000 or less as this will be ignored. (There is no savings limit for Pension Credit but if you have capital over £10,000, the amount you get will be reduced)
Savings Credit
Savings Credit cannot be claimed by people who reach their State Pension age on or after 6th April 2016.
You could be eligible for Savings Credit if:
- You reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016
- You have made some provision for your retirement, such as savings or a private pension.
Unsure if you're eligible?
Call the Age Scotland helpline today on 0800 12 44 222 to speak with an adviser. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.
How do I apply?
To apply over the phone, call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234 (textphone: 0800 169 0133). If you'd prefer a paper application you can request it by calling this number.
Your application will be quicker if you have the following details to hand:
- your National Insurance number
- bank account details
- information about your income, savings and investments
- information about your pension (if you have one)
- details of any housing costs
- your partner’s details (if you have a partner)
You can also claim online at www.gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim if there are no children or young people included in your claim and you already claim your State Pension.
Order copies of our publications
You can download our guides using the links on this page. To request copies, which will be posted out to you for free, you can use our online publications order form or call the Age Scotland Helpline (0800 12 44 222 Monday to Friday 9am-5pm).
The Age Scotland Helpline
Our free 0800 12 44 222 helpline is a free, confidential phone service for older people, their carers and families in Scotland. Lines are open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.