Pension Credit 2026: weekly income top-ups and eligibility

What Pension Credit does

Pension Credit is an income-related benefit for people over State Pension age who live on a low income. It is separate from the State Pension and can be paid even when a person owns their home, has savings or receives another pension.

The main part, Guarantee Credit, raises assessed weekly income to a minimum level. Savings Credit is a separate element available only to some people who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016 and built retirement savings.

Residence and age rules

The GOV.UK scheme covers people living in England, Scotland and Wales who have reached State Pension age. Northern Ireland administers Pension Credit through nidirect. A person cannot make a new claim while already outside Great Britain.

Immigration and habitual residence rules may apply. People from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein usually need an appropriate status under the EU Settlement Scheme. The Pension Service should assess complex residence histories rather than the applicant relying on nationality alone.

Couples must claim together

A couple must include both partners on the claim. Normally both must have reached State Pension age, unless one partner is receiving Housing Benefit for people over that age. A partner includes a spouse, civil partner or a person living together as a couple.

The Department for Work and Pensions calculates combined income and savings. Keeping separate bank accounts does not make the claim individual. A change in partnership or household should be reported because it can alter the applicable minimum and entitlement.

Weekly income top-ups in 2026

Guarantee Credit can top up weekly income to £238 for a single person or £363.25 for a couple. These are standard minimums, not flat payments added to every pension. The award equals the difference after the DWP assesses countable income and any extra amounts.

Income can include State Pension, workplace or private pensions, earnings and most benefits. Some payments, including Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, Housing Benefit and Winter Fuel Payment, are not counted as income for this calculation.

Savings and investments

Savings and investments of £10,000 or less do not affect Pension Credit. Above £10,000, every £500 or part of £500 is treated as £1 of weekly income. This is an assumed income calculation, not the actual interest earned.

There is no simple upper savings cut-off stated in the same way as Universal Credit. A person with more than £10,000 may still qualify depending on pensions, housing costs and extra additions. Full disclosure allows the DWP to apply the correct formula.

Extra amounts that can increase an award

Additional weekly amounts may apply for severe disability, caring responsibilities, children or eligible housing costs. Current figures include up to £86.05 for severe disability and £48.15 for a qualifying carer. Child additions and disability additions depend on the child’s circumstances and qualifying benefits.

Leasehold ground rent and certain service charges may be considered as housing costs. These additions require evidence and do not cover every household bill. The official calculator can provide an estimate, but the final award comes from the claim decision.

Other help linked to Pension Credit

An award can open access to Housing Benefit for renters, Council Tax Reduction, Cold Weather Payments, Support for Mortgage Interest and the Warm Home Discount. People aged 75 or over may qualify for a free TV licence, and Guarantee Credit can provide help with eligible NHS costs.

These linked benefits may require a separate application or additional conditions. The Pension Credit decision letter should be kept because councils, health services or other bodies may request proof of entitlement.

How to make a claim

People who have already applied for State Pension can use the online service. Claims can also be made by calling 0800 99 1234 or by completing the official postal form. A friend or family member may call to help someone who cannot use the phone.

The applicant should prepare National Insurance details, bank information, income, pensions, savings and housing costs. Couples need information for both partners. Submitting complete figures reduces the chance of a follow-up request.

Decision, backdating and changes

The DWP issues a written decision with the amount and start date. Pension Credit can be backdated under the official rules when eligibility existed, but applicants should not delay because backdating is limited. The claim service can explain the date that applies.

Changes in income, savings, address, partnership, care needs or time abroad must be reported. Most temporary trips are limited to four weeks, with longer periods only in defined circumstances such as approved medical treatment.

Checks before claiming

• Confirm State Pension age for both partners.
• List all pensions even when they have not yet been drawn.
• Total savings and investments accurately.
• Gather evidence of disability, caring or housing costs.
• Use the official calculator and keep the decision notice.

Pension Credit is ongoing and rates can change each April. The amounts on this page were checked on 22 June 2026.