Pension Credit

Are you missing out on extra support?

If you’re over the State Pension age, you should check to see if you’re eligible for Pension Credit. We’d encourage you to tell family members or friends to check whether they may qualify too.

People over the State Pension age and on a low income could receive extra money for housing costs, and additional help if they are severely disabled, a carer, or they look after children.

It’s estimated that around a third of pensioners who are eligible for Pension Credit aren’t claiming the help they could get towards day to day living costs – so check if you or someone you know qualifies.

Pension Credit may also give you access to additional support

As well as the financial help, when you claim Pension Credit, you may also be entitled to:

• help with housing costs
• council tax reductions
• help with heating bills and the Winter Fuel Payment
• a free TV licence if you are aged 75 or over.

ⓘ Winter Fuel Payments

The government has announced that the Winter Fuel Payment for winter 2024/2025 will be means tested.

To be eligible for the payment, you will need to be claiming Pension Credit or other means tested benefits.

Find out more on the gov.uk website: gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/eligibility

How much could I receive?

You can use the government’s Pension Credit calculator to get an idea of how much you could receive.

The calculator is easy to use and doesn’t store your personal details: gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator

Applying for Pension Credit

To apply, you’ll need to have:

• your National Insurance number
• information about your income, savings, and investments
• your bank or building society account details

A family member or friend can also help you check if you are eligible and apply.

If you have already applied for your State Pension, you can apply online.

To apply by phone, call 0800 99 1234.

More help and information

For more information, visit the government’s Pension Credit website at www.gov.uk/pension-credit

You’ll also find links to other support you could be entitled to.

We can also answer any questions and help with your application. Call us on 0800 218 2000.

Independent Age

As a charity helping to build a better future for older people in the UK, Independent Age can offer advice on issues including care and support, money and benefits, and health and mobility.

Visit www.independentage.org to find out more.