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In 2025/26, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will provide crucial financial assistance to older married couples through Pension Credit.
This vital, means-tested benefit offers £4,300 in additional support, ensuring that pensioners have enough income to cover their living costs.
However, many eligible pensioners are missing out on this benefit, leaving financial aid untapped. This article outlines everything older married couples need to know to check their eligibility for this substantial boost.
Pension Credit: A Lifeline for Older Married Couples
Pension Credit is designed to top up the income of pensioners whose weekly income falls below a set threshold.
For married couples, the combined weekly income must be under £346.60 to qualify for the full top-up.
For single pensioners, the amount is under £227.10. The DWP estimates that approximately 760,000 eligible pensioners have not claimed Pension Credit despite qualifying for it, highlighting the need for greater awareness.
Pension Credit Income Thresholds
| Category | Weekly Income Threshold |
|---|---|
| Single Pensioner | £227.10 |
| Couples (Married or Cohabiting) | £346.60 |
Who Is Eligible for Pension Credit?
Eligibility for Pension Credit depends on several factors. Older married couples who have a combined weekly income of £346.60 or less may qualify for this benefit. It is essential to note that Pension Credit is means-tested, so owning a home or having savings does not automatically disqualify applicants.
Common Misconceptions About Eligibility
Many seniors mistakenly believe they are not eligible due to:
- Owning their own home: Homeownership does not disqualify you from receiving Pension Credit.
- Having savings: Savings below £10,000 are not counted when assessing eligibility.
Additional Support for Special Circumstances
If a pensioner has special needs such as a disability, being a carer, or paying housing costs, they may still qualify for the benefit, even if their income is above the basic threshold.
How Pension Credit Helps Married Couples
The Pension Credit scheme is designed to top up a couple’s income, ensuring it meets the minimum required for essential expenses.
In 2025/26, couples who qualify can receive an average £4,300 in additional support. This amount helps with daily costs such as heating bills, rent, and Council Tax.
Pension Credit Payments for Married Couples
If eligible, married couples can expect the following support:
- Top-up to £346.60 per week.
- Potential back payments if they missed out on claims for previous periods.
What Counts as Income for Pension Credit?
Income used to determine eligibility includes:
- State Pension.
- Private pensions.
- Earnings from employment or self-employment.
- Social security benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance.
However, some benefits are excluded from income calculations, including:
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
- PIP (Personal Independence Payment).
- Winter Fuel Allowance.
- Housing Benefit.
- Council Tax Reduction.
- Attendance Allowance.
- Child Benefit.
Impact of Savings on Pension Credit
Savings play a role in the Pension Credit assessment, but only savings over £10,000 are considered.
For every £500 over this threshold, £1 is added to your weekly income for calculation purposes. For example, a couple with £11,000 in savings will have £2 added to their weekly income.
How to Apply for Pension Credit
It is essential that married couples check their eligibility and apply for Pension Credit to ensure they are receiving the support they are entitled to.
Ways to Check Eligibility
- Online: Use the Pension Credit calculator on the GOV.UK website to quickly assess eligibility.
- By Phone: Call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234, open Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm.
DWP’s Ongoing Awareness Campaign
The DWP has launched a renewed awareness campaign to encourage eligible pensioners to apply for Pension Credit. This effort aims to ensure that no one is left behind in claiming the financial support they need.
Processing Pension Credit Claims
Recent data shows that the DWP is processing 78% of new claims within the target timeframe of 50 working days.
Pensioners who apply now can expect to receive their first payments, including any back payments, by July 2025. This timely processing helps ease the financial pressures faced by older couples.
Older married couples could be missing out on a £4,300 DWP boost through Pension Credit. By checking their eligibility and applying, they can receive much-needed financial support. Ensure you check your eligibility today to make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.
FAQs
What is the eligibility for Pension Credit for married couples?
Married couples are eligible if their combined weekly income is under £346.60.
Can savings affect my eligibility for Pension Credit?
Savings under £10,000 do not affect eligibility, but savings above that threshold will be counted as income for calculation.
How can I apply for Pension Credit?
You can apply online using the Pension Credit calculator or by calling the helpline at 0800 99 1234.