Thousands of pensioners in the UK could be missing out on vital financial support—potentially worth over £1,300—due to unclaimed Pension Credit. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is now encouraging retirees to use its simplified 15-minute check to see if they qualify for this benefit.
What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit that helps low-income retirees top up their income. It is separate from the State Pension and does not affect your eligibility for it. Even if someone has savings, other income, or owns a home, they might still qualify.
According to the UK Government, around 1.4 million pensioners currently receive Pension Credit—but an estimated 850,000 people eligible for the benefit are not claiming it.
How Much Could You Receive?
While the DWP says Pension Credit can add an average of £3,900 annually (around £75 per week), the £1,310 figure refers to the estimated minimum annual boost many pensioners could receive after a successful claim.
Additionally, Pension Credit acts as a gateway to other valuable support, including:
- Free TV Licence (for those over 75)
- Housing Benefit to help with rent
- Council Tax Reductions
- Cold Weather Payments & Winter Fuel Payments
- Free NHS Dental Care, Prescriptions, and Eye Tests
These extras can collectively increase the annual value of support well beyond £1,310.
The New 15-Minute DWP Online Check
To make it easier to access this support, the DWP has simplified the application process. The new online system allows pensioners—or someone on their behalf—to check eligibility and start a claim in about 15 minutes.
The online application form has been streamlined and is available on the official GOV.UK Pension Credit page.
Applicants will need:
- Their National Insurance number
- Details of income, savings, and investments
- Bank account details
The DWP’s official statement notes that the form takes just over 15 minutes to complete on average, with most decisions made quickly after submission.
For those who prefer to apply over the phone, the Pension Credit claim line is available at 0800 99 1234, Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for Pension Credit, you must:
- Live in England, Scotland, or Wales
- Be over State Pension age (check your age here)
- Have a weekly income below £201.05 if you’re single or £306.85 for couples (as of April 2025)
If your income is higher but you have a disability, are a carer, or have certain housing costs, you may still qualify.
You can estimate your eligibility using the Pension Credit calculator provided by the government.
Why Pensioners Miss Out
Research from Age UK and MoneySavingExpert shows that many retirees don’t claim Pension Credit because they mistakenly believe:
- They are not eligible due to modest savings or owning a home
- It’s too complex or time-consuming to apply
- They don’t want to receive “benefits”
But the reality is that Pension Credit is designed specifically to help those who have worked and contributed to the system but still find themselves short on income in retirement.
As the cost of living continues to rise, even a small weekly top-up can make a significant difference.
Government’s Push to Raise Awareness
Minister for Pensions, Paul Maynard, emphasized the importance of Pension Credit, stating:
“This quick eligibility check could mean an extra £1,310 or more for pensioners who may not realize they’re entitled to it. We urge anyone who thinks they or someone they know may qualify to apply today.”
In 2024, the DWP processed nearly 50,000 additional Pension Credit claims, largely due to increased awareness campaigns.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a pensioner—or know someone who is—it’s worth taking 15 minutes to complete the DWP check. Not only could it mean an extra £1,310 or more annually, but it may also unlock valuable additional benefits to ease everyday expenses.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
