How much is Pension Credit?

Guarantee Credit tops your weekly income up to £238.00 if you're single, or £363.25 combined for a couple. You get the difference between your actual income and that minimum.

What is Savings Credit?

A smaller additional top-up — up to £17.96/week (single) or £20.10/week (couple) — but it's only available if you (or your partner) reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016. Most people reaching State Pension age now won't qualify for this part.

Why does Pension Credit matter even if the amount is small?

Getting any Pension Credit "passports" you to other help — a free TV licence if you're 75+, help with NHS costs, Cold Weather Payments, and often a reduction on Council Tax — so it's worth checking even if the weekly top-up looks modest.

Can I get Pension Credit if I have savings?

Yes — unlike working-age benefits, there's no savings limit that disqualifies you outright, but savings over £10,000 are treated as producing £1/week of "assumed income" for every £500 (or part) above that, which counts towards your income for the calculation.

Can I claim before I reach State Pension age?

No — Pension Credit requires you (and your partner, for a couple claiming together under the mixed-age couple rules) to have reached State Pension age. Universal Credit is the equivalent benefit below that age.

Pension Credit — Rates, Eligibility & How to Apply

Important

This tool provides an estimate based on the information you provide. It is not an official benefits eligibility assessment. Always confirm with the official GOV.UK service or your local council before making decisions.

What is Pension Credit?

Extra money for people over State Pension age on a low income — tops up your weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level.

Who may qualify

You've reached State Pension age (currently 66)
You live in the UK
Your weekly income is below the Guarantee Credit minimum for your household type

Payment rates

Household	Guarantee Credit tops income up to
Single	£238.00/week
Couple	£363.25/week combined

Savings Credit (up to £17.96/week single, £20.10/week couple) is a legacy top-up, only for those who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016.

How it's calculated

DWP compares your weekly income (including most pensions, savings income, and earnings) against the Guarantee Credit minimum for your household. If your income is lower, Pension Credit pays the difference. Our Benefits Checker estimates this Guarantee Credit top-up only — it doesn't include Savings Credit, severe disability or carer additions, or housing costs.

How to apply

Apply online, by phone, or by post via GOV.UK, up to 4 months before you reach State Pension age or any time after. Claims can be backdated up to 3 months.

Source: GOV.UK — Pension Credit: What you'll get — last reviewed 2026-10-05

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Pension Credit — Rates, Eligibility & How to Apply

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