DWP Urges 910,000 Pensioners to Claim Pension Credit

The Department for Work and Pensions has updated its guidance to encourage pensioners across Great Britain to check their eligibility for Pension Credit. The agency estimates that up to 910,000 pensioner households qualify for the tax-free benefit but have not applied, potentially missing an average of £87 per week or more than £4,500 annually.

As part of a designated week of action, the department is attempting to correct common misconceptions regarding eligibility. The DWP clarified that owning a home or possessing savings up to £10,000 does not automatically disqualify an applicant from receiving the benefit.

The agency is calling on healthcare workers, friends, and family members to prompt older adults to apply, particularly those who have recently faced life changes such as health deterioration, the death of a partner, or retirement. In addition to direct payments, Pension Credit provides a gateway to further assistance, including free TV licences for those aged 75 and over, Council Tax reductions, and support with heating costs.