Benefit
Pension Credit
A means-tested top-up for people over State Pension age on a low income — often worth checking even if you think savings or a partner's income might rule you out.
Who it's for
Pension Credit has two parts: Guarantee Credit, which tops up weekly income to a minimum level, and Savings Credit, only available if you (or your partner) reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016.
- You've reached State Pension age
- Your weekly income is below the standard minimum guarantee (or you qualify for extra amounts that raise your applicable threshold)
- You live in Great Britain
What you may get (2026/27 rates)
Guarantee Credit tops your income up to the standard minimum guarantee. Extra amounts can raise this further.
- Standard minimum guarantee, single: £238.00 a week
- Standard minimum guarantee, couple: £363.25 a week
- Extra amount for severe disability: £86.05 a week (single or one partner qualifying)
- Extra amount for caring (Carer Addition): £48.15 a week
Why it's worth checking even if unsure
An estimated one million eligible pensioners don't claim Pension Credit, often assuming modest savings or a partner's income rules them out. It doesn't always. Claiming also acts as a gateway to other help, including Council Tax Reduction, a free TV licence for over-75s, and NHS costs support.
Frequently asked questions
BenefitsPlanner is an independent planning tool. It is not GOV.UK, DWP, HMRC, your local authority, or the NHS, and nothing here is an official entitlement decision. Always check current rules on GOV.UK or with the relevant authority.