The government is planning to combine pension credit and housing benefit
The move should make it easier to claim both benefits and help make sure pensioners receive what they’re entitled to - there is currently around £2bn in unclaimed pension credit and housing benefit.
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Changes to pension credit
At the time of publication, we don’t know exactly when the change will take place (UPDATE AS NEEDED), although it’s expected to be in 2026. I’m letting you know about it now though because – when it happens - the move will be easier if you’re already claiming pension credit and/or housing benefit. You might be missing out on benefits that you’re entitled to claim, so it’s worth checking if you’re eligible now anyway.
What is pension credit?
Pension is a benefit for people who are over the state pension age (currently 66) and on a low income. It’s separate from your state pension. It ‘tops up’ your income up to £218.15 a week if you’re single, or £332.95 jointly for partners. However, this could increase if, for example, you have a disability or have a dependant.
Once pension credit is in place, it can make it easier for you to access other benefits, such as the winter fuel payment and housing benefit, as you’ll receive applicable payments automatically.
Applying for pension credit is very easy. It only takes a few minutes to complete – I’ve recently helped someone to do this, so I’m speaking from experience. You just need to have the following information ready.
- National Insurance number
- details of income and pensions
- details of money, savings and investments, usually for the last 3 months
You can apply for pension credit here.
or
Telephone: 0800 99 1234 Textphone: 0800 169 0133 Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 99 1234
What is housing benefit?
Housing benefit helps you pay all or some of your rent if on a low income or are claiming benefits. It’s available to pensioners with less than £16,000 in savings.
You can apply for housing benefit as part of your pension credit application.