Answers · UK 2025/26
Am I eligible for UK Pension Credit?
You may qualify for Pension Credit if you're State Pension Age (66) or over and your weekly income is below £227.10 (single) or £346.60 (couple). About 850,000 eligible UK pensioners do not claim — average award is over £3,900/year plus access to other benefits.
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UK Pension Credit 2025/26. Pension Credit is means-tested income support topping up to the Guarantee threshold. Eligibility: you (and partner, if any) must be State Pension Age (66 in 2025/26, rising to 67 from April 2026). Income limits 2025/26: single £227.10/week, couple £346.60/week. Income counted includes State Pension, private pensions, earnings (less work allowances), some benefits. Capital up to £10,000 ignored; above £10,000 it reduces Pension Credit by £1/week per £500 over the threshold (no upper limit on capital but the more you have, the smaller the award). Two parts: Guarantee Credit (tops up to thresholds above); Savings Credit (only for those who reached SPA before 6 April 2016 — gives extra for modest retirement savings, up to £17.30/week single). Additional amounts: Severe Disability Premium (£82.90/week if you receive disability benefit and live alone), Carer Premium (£46.40/week), Housing costs amount. Linked benefits — if eligible for Pension Credit you automatically qualify for: Cold Weather Payment (£25/week of cold weather), Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction (up to 100%), free NHS prescriptions, dental treatment, eye tests, free TV licence (age 75+), Warm Home Discount (£150). UK government estimates 850,000 eligible pensioners don't claim — average loss £3,900+/year. Apply at gov.uk/pension-credit or call 0800 99 1234. Backdating up to 3 months automatic.
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This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.