# Am I eligible for Pension Credit?

> Eligibility · Last reviewed 26 May 2026

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## In short

If you're State Pension age and your weekly income is under £227.10 (single) or £346.60 (couple) for 2025/26, you may qualify for Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit). Around 760,000 eligible pensioners don't claim it — and missing out also loses the Winter Fuel Payment from 2024/25.

Pension Credit tops up low income in retirement. It's also a 'passport' to free TV licences (over 75s), the Winter Fuel Payment, Council Tax reductions, NHS costs and Cold Weather Payments.

Typical amount: Guarantee Credit tops weekly income up to £227.10 (single) / £346.60 (couple) — 2025/26. Savings Credit (older claimants only) up to £17.30/wk single, £19.36/wk couple

## Who usually qualifies

- You and your partner are both at State Pension age
- Your weekly income is below the appropriate threshold
- You live in the UK
- Mixed-age couples reaching State Pension age before 15 May 2019 may still qualify

## Who usually does not

- You're below State Pension age (claim Universal Credit instead)
- Most mixed-age couples claiming for the first time after 15 May 2019
- Your income (including most pensions) exceeds the threshold

## How to check

- The official Pension Credit calculator is at gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator
- The Pension Credit claim line is 0800 99 1234 (8am–6pm, Mon–Fri)
- Applications can be made online at gov.uk/pension-credit, by phone or by post

## Frequently asked questions

### Does Pension Credit affect Winter Fuel Payment?

Yes — from winter 2024/25, the Winter Fuel Payment in England and Wales is means-tested and only payable to households getting Pension Credit (or certain other means-tested benefits). Backdate a Pension Credit claim within 3 months to receive the WFP for that winter.

### What counts as income for Pension Credit?

State Pension, private pensions, earnings, most benefits and an assumed income from savings above £10,000 (£1/week per £500). Some benefits like Disability Living Allowance, PIP and Attendance Allowance don't count.

### Can I get Pension Credit if I own my home?

Yes — the value of your home doesn't count for Pension Credit. Savings above £10,000 affect the calculation but don't disqualify.

## Sources

- [GOV.UK — Pension Credit](https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit)
- [GOV.UK — Pension Credit calculator](https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator)
- [GOV.UK — Winter Fuel Payment](https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment)

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