If you’re age 66 or over with a low income, then you could be eligible for Pension Credit. This would give you extra money and support with heating costs.
You now need to be claiming Pension Credit to be able to get the Winter Fuel Payment.
What is Pension Credit?
It’s a means-tested benefit for people over the State Pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit tops up your income to a minimum weekly level.
Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension. You can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.
There’s also a GOV.UK easy read guide to Pension Credit (which explains in simplified language).
How much could I get?
Pension Credit is worth, on average, £3,900 a year.
Pension Credit tops up:
- Your weekly income to £218.15 if you’re single
- Your joint weekly income to £332.95 if you have a partner
If your income is higher, you might still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, you care for someone, you have savings or you have housing costs.
What else could I get if I claim Pension Credit?
If you get Pension Credit you can also get other help, such as:
- The Winter Fuel Payment
- Help with heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme and Cold Weather Payment
- Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
- Support for mortgage interest if you own the property you live in
- A Council Tax discount
- A free TV Licence if you’re aged 75 or over
- Help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments, if you get a certain type of Pension Credit
- A discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you’re moving house
How do I apply?
Step 1
Use the quick online calculator to check eligibility and how much you could get.
Step 2
Have the following information ready:
- National Insurance number
- Information about any income, savings and investments you have
- Bank details
Step 3
Visit gov.uk/pension-credit to apply online.
Alternatively, you can call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
Step 4
You will be notified by post when your claim has been assessed.
Deadline (Winter Fuel Payment)
Thanks to the Pension Credit backdating rules, it’s possible to apply for Pension Credit and have the claim backdated by up to 3 months – so long as there is entitlement during that time.
This means that the latest date to apply and still qualify for a Winter Fuel Payment is December 21, 2024.
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