In 2025, thousands of pensioners in the UK are missing out on valuable support through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The Pension Credit scheme offers up to £346.60 per week for eligible couples, helping low-income retirees afford everyday essentials.
If you’re over State Pension age and have limited income, understanding how this benefit works could boost your weekly income and unlock other valuable perks
What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a government benefit that tops up your weekly income if it’s below a certain threshold. It is separate from the State Pension and is split into two types:
- Guarantee Credit – Ensures your income is raised to a minimum level.
- Savings Credit – A small bonus for those who saved modestly for retirement (only available to those who reached pension age before 6 April 2016).
2025 Weekly Pension Credit Payment Rates
| Category | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Single (Guarantee Credit) | £227.10 |
| Couple (Guarantee Credit) | £346.60 |
| Savings Credit (Single) | £17.01 |
| Savings Credit (Couple) | £19.04 |
| Severe Disability Addition | £82.90 |
| Carer Addition | £46.40 |
| Child Addition (per child) | £61.88 |
Payments vary based on your income, savings, and situation.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for Pension Credit in 2025:
- You must live in England, Scotland, or Wales.
- You (or your partner) must be of State Pension age.
- Your weekly income must fall below the threshold (£227.10 for singles, £346.60 for couples).
- Savings over £10,000 are considered. For every extra £500, £1 is added to your income calculation.
- Couples must both be of State Pension age unless one receives Housing Benefit for those over pension age.
Additional Benefits with Pension Credit
By claiming Pension Credit, you might also receive:
- Free NHS dental treatment
- Cold Weather Payments and Warm Home Discount
- Help with heating bills (Winter Fuel Payment)
- Council Tax Reduction
- Free TV Licence (if over 75)
- Housing Benefit or help with mortgage interest
How to Claim Pension Credit in 2025
There are 3 ways to claim Pension Credit:
- Online: Visit the official GOV.UK website.
- Phone: Call 0800 99 1234 (Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm).
- Post: Download, complete, and mail the claim form.
Documents Needed
Before applying, prepare:
- National Insurance number
- Bank account details
- Income and savings proof
- Housing cost details
- Partner’s information, if applicable
Your claim can be backdated by 3 months if eligible during that time.
Common Misunderstandings
Many pensioners don’t apply because they assume they aren’t eligible due to:
- Owning a property
- Having modest savings
- Receiving a pension above the basic level
In reality, you can still qualify. Use the Pension Credit Calculator online to check.
Can You Travel and Still Receive Pension Credit?
Yes, but only for:
- Up to 4 weeks for holidays
- Up to 26 weeks if traveling for medical treatment
You must continue to meet standard eligibility requirements while abroad.
Unclaimed Benefits – Are You Missing Out?
Over 750,000 households are eligible but not claiming. That’s hundreds of millions of pounds in lost aid. The DWP is encouraging eligible pensioners to check and claim their benefits.
The DWP £346 Pension Credit in 2025 is a crucial support tool for retirees living on limited means. It offers not only weekly income boosts but also access to various essential services and discounts.
If you or someone you know may be eligible, it’s worth applying right away—you could be missing out on over £3,000 per quarter.
Use the Pension Credit calculator online and start your claim today to make the most of the support you deserve.
FAQs
Can I claim Pension Credit if I already receive the State Pension?
Yes. Pension Credit is a separate benefit designed to top up your income.
Is there a limit on how much I can have in savings?
No strict limit, but anything over £10,000 will impact your assessment.
Can my claim be backdated?
Yes, up to 3 months, if you met all eligibility criteria during that time.