DWP £4,300 Financial Relief for 760,000 Pensioners: How to Check & Claim

Thousands of older people across the UK are missing out on Pension Credit, a government benefit that could boost their income by up to £4,300 per year. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has warned that more than 760,000 pensioners may not realise they qualify for this State Pension top-up, despite meeting the criteria.

This benefit is aimed at helping pensioners on a low income, and claiming it can also open the door to other valuable support, including help with housing costs, heating bills, and Council Tax. If you or someone you know is over State Pension age, it’s time to check what support might be available.

What Is Pension Credit?

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Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age. It helps to top up low incomes and ensures elderly individuals can cover the rising cost of living.

Here’s how it works:

If you’re single, it tops up your weekly income to £227.10

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If you’re in a couple, it tops up your joint income to £346.60

You might still qualify even if your income is higher — for example, if you:

Have a disability

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Care for someone

Pay housing costs

Have savings or own a home

Why Are So Many Pensioners Missing Out?

According to DWP figures, around 1.4 million people currently claim Pension Credit. However, about 760,000 others could be eligible but haven’t applied.

Many pensioners wrongly believe that owning a home or having some savings makes them ineligible. In reality:

Savings of up to £10,000 don’t affect your eligibility

If you have more than £10,000, every £500 over is counted as just £1 income per week

Even a small Pension Credit award (like £1/week) can unlock additional benefits

What Counts as Income?

Included in income calculations:

State Pension

Private or work pensions

Earnings from work or self-employment

Most social security benefits (e.g. Carer’s Allowance)

Not counted as income:

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Attendance Allowance

Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

Housing Benefit

Council Tax Reduction

Winter Fuel Payment

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How to Check If You’re Eligible

Checking your eligibility is simple and can be done online using the official Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK. You can also call the Pension Credit helpline or speak to Citizens Advice or Age UK for help.

You’ll need to provide information about:

Your income and savings

Any benefits you receive

Your living situation (e.g. if you live with a partner)

When Will You Get Paid?

The DWP has confirmed that 78% of Pension Credit applications are processed within 50 working days (around 10 weeks). That means if you apply now, you could receive your first payment – and any owed back pay – by July.

Why You Should Claim Now

Claiming Pension Credit doesn’t just boost your income. It can also give you access to:

Free NHS dental care

Cold Weather Payments

Help with energy bills

A free TV licence if you’re over 75

It’s also worth remembering: even if you get just £1 in Pension Credit, you’re automatically entitled to other forms of support.

With the rising cost of living, it’s more important than ever for older people to claim every benefit they’re entitled to. If you’re over State Pension age or care for someone who is, check your eligibility today using the free GOV.UK Pension Credit calculator. With an average annual boost of £4,300, this support can make a real difference in daily life — and unlock access to much more. Don’t miss out.

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