Hundreds of Thousands Still Missing Out On DWP Boost – Act Now!
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has intensified efforts to encourage eligible pensioners to claim Pension Credit, a benefit designed to supplement the income of low-income retirees.
Despite a significant increase in successful claims, approximately 700,000 households remain unclaimed, missing out on an average of £3,900 annually.
Recent Developments and Statistics
- Increase in Claims: Between July 2024 and February 2025, the DWP received 235,000 Pension Credit applications, marking an 81% increase compared to the same period the previous year.
- Successful Awards: Out of these applications, 117,800 were awarded, representing a 64% increase in successful claims.
- Processing Times: The average processing time for Pension Credit applications stands at 52.8 working days, slightly over the DWP’s target of 50 days.
- Backlog Reduction: The DWP has reduced the backlog of unprocessed applications from approximately 30,000 in June 2024 to 10,800.
Eligibility Criteria for Pension Credit
Pension Credit comprises two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.
Guarantee Credit
- Age Requirement: You must have reached the State Pension age of 66.
- Income Thresholds:
- Single Person: Weekly income less than £227.10.
- Couple: Weekly income less than £346.60.
- Additional Amounts: Higher amounts may be available if you’re disabled, a carer, or have certain housing costs.
Savings Credit
- Eligibility: Available if you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016.
- Maximum Weekly Amounts:
- Single Person: Up to £17.30.
- Couple: Up to £19.36.
Additional Benefits of Claiming Pension Credit
Claiming Pension Credit can unlock access to several other benefits:
- Winter Fuel Payment: Assistance with heating costs during winter.
- Free TV Licence: Available for those aged 75 or over.
- Housing Benefit: Help with rent payments.
- Council Tax Reduction: Discounts on council tax bills.
- NHS Costs: Assistance with dental treatment, glasses, and transport costs for hospital appointments.
How to Check Eligibility and Apply
- Online Calculator: Use the Pension Credit calculator to check eligibility.
- Phone Application: Call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234, open 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
- Application Timing: You can apply up to four months before reaching State Pension age. Claims can be backdated for up to three months.
Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Unclaimed Households | Approximately 700,000 |
| Average Annual Benefit | £3,900 |
| Recent Applications | 235,000 (July 2024 – February 2025) |
| Successful Awards | 117,800 |
| Processing Time | 52.8 working days |
| Eligibility Age | 66 |
| Income Threshold (Single) | Less than £227.10 per week |
| Income Threshold (Couple) | Less than £346.60 per week |
| Savings Credit Eligibility | Reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016 |
| Additional Benefits | Winter Fuel Payment, Free TV Licence, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, NHS Cost Assistance |
With 700,000 households still missing out on Pension Credit, it’s crucial for eligible individuals to check their entitlement.
Claiming this benefit not only provides a financial boost but also grants access to additional support services, enhancing the quality of life for pensioners across the UK.
FAQs
What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age, designed to supplement their income and provide access to additional support.
Can I claim Pension Credit if I have savings or own my home?
Yes. Owning your home or having savings does not automatically disqualify you from receiving Pension Credit.
How long does it take to process a Pension Credit application?
The average processing time is approximately 52.8 working days.
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