# What is Pension Credit and who can claim it?

> Quick answer · Last updated 6 April 2026

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## In short

A means-tested benefit that tops up the weekly income of people over State Pension age — and a gateway to free TV Licence (over 75), Cold Weather Payment, Housing Benefit and Council Tax help.

Pension Credit comes in two parts. Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income to a minimum amount (around £227 single / £347 couple, uprated each April — check gov.uk for the current rate). Savings Credit is a small extra payment for people who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016.

Claiming Pension Credit unlocks access to several other forms of help: free NHS dental treatment, Cold Weather Payment, support with rent, full Council Tax Reduction and (for over-75s) a free TV Licence. Roughly 800,000 eligible households still do not claim.

You can apply by phone, online or by post — backdating is possible up to three months. Check entitlement with the Pension Credit calculator on gov.uk.

## Related

- [Benefits & tax guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk/benefits-tax/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/pension-credit

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.