Answers · UK 2025/26

How does Pension Credit work and how much can I get in 2026/27?

Pension Credit tops up your weekly income to a guaranteed minimum of £218.15 (single) or £332.95 (couple) in 2026/27. It is means-tested by income but not by capital above a notional tariff income. It also triggers access to free NHS dental treatment, housing benefit, and Council Tax Reduction. Around 880,000 eligible people currently do not claim it.

Last updated: 10 June 2026Last reviewed: 10 June 2026How we verify

Full answer

Pension Credit has two elements. The Guarantee Credit ensures your total income is at least £218.15 per week if you are single, or £332.95 per week if you are a couple, in 2026/27. If your income (including State Pension, occupational pensions, and most other income) is below those levels, Pension Credit makes up the difference. Capital above £10,000 is treated as generating a tariff income of £1 per week for every £500, which reduces the credit -- but there is no capital limit above which you are completely excluded (unlike some other means-tested benefits). The Savings Credit is a secondary element available only to those who reached State Pension Age before 6 April 2016 (since new claimants are all on the new State Pension). It can add up to £17.01 per week (single) or £19.04 per week (couple) for those who saved for retirement above the basic State Pension level. Pension Credit is worth claiming for several reasons beyond the cash top-up. Successful claimants automatically get: free NHS dental treatment and sight tests; help with glasses and travel to hospital; free TV licence (if aged 75+); Cold Weather Payments; Housing Benefit if renting; and access to Council Tax Reduction (up to 100%). If you receive Carer's Allowance (or have underlying entitlement), Pension Credit also includes a Carer Addition of £45.60 per week. Pension Credit is claimed by calling the Pension Service on 0800 99 1234 (lines open 8am-6pm Mon-Fri) or applying online at GOV.UK. Despite significant outreach campaigns, an estimated 880,000 eligible households do not claim it -- collectively missing out on around £1.7 billion per year. If you are close to the minimum income levels, it is always worth applying.