Pension Credit calculator
Pension Credit is the most under-claimed benefit for older people in the UK. It tops up a low weekly income, and it acts as a gateway to a free TV licence, Council Tax Reduction, help with NHS costs and an unclawed Winter Fuel Payment. Owning your home does not rule you out.
Uses 2026/27 tax year rates, checked 2 August 2026.
What this tool does not do
- It does not make a decision. Only the DWP, your council or the NHS can do that.
- It estimates Guarantee Credit only. Savings Credit, for people who reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016, is not modelled.
- It does not account for housing costs, which can increase an award.
- It is an estimate based on published rules and 2026/27 rates, not advice.
Common questions
What is Pension Credit?
A top-up for people over State Pension age on a low income. Guarantee Credit brings your weekly income up to £238.00 if you are single or £363.25 for a couple, for 2026/27. Extra amounts apply if you are disabled or a carer.
Why does Pension Credit matter so much?
Because of what it unlocks. Getting even 10p of Pension Credit can passport you to a Winter Fuel Payment that is not clawed back, a free TV licence at 75 and over, Council Tax Reduction, help with NHS dental and optical costs, and a Cold Weather Payment. The knock-on value is often worth more than the Pension Credit itself.
Do savings stop me getting Pension Credit?
Not automatically. The first £10,000 of savings is ignored completely. Above that you are treated as having £1 a week of income for every £500, which is far more generous than people assume. There is no upper capital limit.
Does owning my home affect it?
No. The home you live in is not counted as capital for Pension Credit. Many homeowners on modest pensions qualify and never claim because they assume owning a house rules them out.
Can Pension Credit be backdated?
Yes, by up to three months, as long as you would have qualified during that period. So a successful claim can arrive with a lump sum.