State Pensioners over the age of 66 can claim up to £8,368 from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help with essential living costs.
The DWP issued a fresh alert to pensioners this week to apply for Pension Credit as the benefit – which is worth around £4,200 per year – can “unlock” a wealth of extra support on top worth thousands of pounds.
Pension Credit provides extra money to those who are over 66 and on a low income, but it also serves as a gateway to an array of other benefits so it’s well worth applying for if you’re eligible.
The benefit tops up your weekly income to £218.15 if you’re single, or up to £332.95 if you have a partner, and is separate from your State Pension.
In a post on X, the DWP said: “Are you over 66? A quick online application could unlock £4,200 per year on average in Pension Credit plus extra help with heating bills including a Warm Home Discount. Apply now.”
If you meet the qualifying criteria for Pension Credit, this will not only grant you up to £4,200 per year but you’ll also be entitled to additional benefits worth around an extra £4,168.40. This includes:
Housing Benefit – £1,000
If you rent your home and you get the Guarantee element of Pension Credit then you’re eligible for the maximum Housing Benefit entitlement from your local council. This isn’t a fixed amount, but Martin Lewis’ MSE says you could get around £1,000 per year, and potentially have your rent paid in full.
Council Tax discount – £1,600
Pension Credit claimants can get a council tax discount. The exact amount you’ll get depends on your local council, but it can be anything from around £300 for a 25% reduction on a typical Band D bill up to around £1,600 for a 100% discount.
Free TV Licence – £169.50
Anyone aged 75 and over and claiming Pension Credit can get £169.50 off their TV Licence bill, cutting it down to £0.
Heating bills discount – £150
Pension Credit entitles you to help with heating costs through the DWP’s Warm Home Discount scheme, which knocks £150 off your electricity bill. The discount is automatically applied by your electricity supplier by March 31, 2025.
Free NHS prescriptions – £9.90
Claiming Pension Credit will also entitle you to free NHS prescriptions, which cost £9.90 per item in England.
Free eye care – up to £215
If you get any of the Guarantee element of Pension Credit then you are entitled to help with NHS eye care, including a voucher for glasses or contact lenses. According to Martin Lewis’ MSE this could be worth up to £215, depending on your prescription.
Free NHS dental treatment – up to £1,000
Pensioners who qualify for the Guarantee element of Pension Credit are also entitled to free NHS dental treatment, including anything from a simple check up to full dentures. According to Martin Lewis’ MSE this could amount to up to £1,000 worth of free treatment per year.
Royal Mail redirection discount – £24
Pension Credit claimants are entitled to a discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you’re moving house. The service normally costs £84, but you’ll only have to pay £60 – giving you a saving of £24.
You can start an application for Pension Credit up to four months before you reach State Pension age – which is 66 for both men and women – and any time after, but your application can only be backdated by three months. You can apply online via GOV.UK or by calling the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
