Pension Credit is for people of pension qualifying age. This is a means tested benefit.
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges.
You might get extra help if you’re a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person.
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.
To qualify for Pension Credit:
- you must live in England, Scotland or Wales
- you and your partner must have reached State Pension age
Your partner is your husband, wife or civil partner (if you live with them) or someone else you live with as if you were married.
Changes From 15 May 2019
If you already get Pension Credit and you’re single, you’ll stop getting Pension Credit if you start living with a partner who is under State Pension age. You can start getting it again when your partner reaches State Pension age. Your partner will have to claim Universal credit for you as a couple.
See more information and how to apply on the gov.uk website: Pension Credit: Overview – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
How to claim
The quickest way to apply for Pension Credit is by phone.
A friend or family member can call for you – you must be with them when they call.
Pension Credit claim line
Telephone: 0800 99 1234
Textphone: 0800 169 0133
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 99 1234
Monday to Friday, 8am to 7:30pm
You can use a paper application if you’re unable to make a claim by phone. Contact a voluntary organisation (for example Enfield Carers Centre, Citizens Advice or AgeUK) in your area – or get a friend or family member to call the helpline to ask for a paper application.
