Up to 910,000 pensioner households across the UK could be missing out on Pension Credit, new figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) suggest. Despite growing awareness of the benefit, many older people are still not claiming the support they are entitled to.
Sharp Drop in Pension Credit Applications
The latest DWP data shows that Pension Credit applications fell sharply in 2025/26. The department received 211,125 applications, down 34% from 321,035 the previous year. Similarly, awards dropped to 138,165, a 24% decline from 180,970 in 2024/25.
Financial experts warn that this decline hides a much larger problem. According to Broadstone, up to 910,000 eligible households are not claiming Pension Credit, potentially missing out on £2.5 billion in support.
What Pension Credit Offers
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit designed to top up the income of older people with low earnings. Guarantee Credit ensures a weekly minimum income of £238 for singles and £363.25 for couples, with extra amounts for those who are disabled, carers, or have certain housing costs.
Savings Credit can provide an additional £17.96 per week for singles and £20 for couples, depending on income and savings. Overall, eligible pensioners could receive up to £4,300 a year in total support.
Additional Benefits
Receiving Pension Credit can also unlock a wide range of other support, including:
- Housing Benefit or Support for Mortgage Interest
- Council Tax reductions
- Free TV licence for those aged 75 or over
- NHS help with dental treatment, glasses, and hospital transport
- Warm Home Discount for heating costs
- Discounts on Royal Mail redirection services
Even an award as small as £1 per week can open access to these additional benefits.
How to Check Eligibility and Claim
Pensioners or their families can use the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK to check eligibility and estimate payments. Claims can also be made by calling the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234 (Monday–Friday, 8am–6pm).
Independent organisations, such as Age UK, Citizens Advice, Independent Age, and Income Max, provide additional support and guidance for those making claims.
Why Acting Now Matters
David Brooks, Head of Policy at Broadstone, said: “The surge in claims following Winter Fuel Payment changes highlighted how many pensioners were missing out. The risk now is that awareness fades, leaving thousands of households without income support.”
With thousands of pensioners potentially losing out on £4,300 a year, experts stress the importance of checking eligibility and submitting a claim to ensure older households receive the financial support they are entitled to.
