In an effort to reduce pensioner poverty and ensure older citizens are receiving the benefits they are entitled to, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is launching a new initiative to identify and support pensioners who may be eligible for Pension Credit but have yet to claim it.
The targeted outreach follows a record year for Pension Credit applications, with more changes expected in April 2025 that could make even more people eligible.
Record Number of Pension Credit Claims in 2024/25
According to recent government data, the DWP received over 300,000 applications for Pension Credit in the 2024/25 financial year — the highest on record. The surge came after a major awareness campaign linked to Winter Fuel Payments in July 2024.
Between July 29, 2024, and February 2025, the department noted:
- An 81% increase in applications compared to the same period the previous year.
- 117,800 successful awards, marking a 64% rise from 2023/24.
- Deployment of over 500 extra DWP staff to handle the rising number of claims, which reduced pending applications from 85,500 to 33,700 by late February.
Pension Credit Rule Changes in April 2025
To expand access and increase uptake, the DWP is set to introduce new eligibility criteria from April 2025:
✅ Increased Capital Thresholds:
- Lower limit: Raised from £10,000 to £12,500
- Upper limit: Raised from £16,000 to £20,000
This allows pensioners to hold more savings without losing their eligibility for support.
✅ Income and Expense Adjustments:
- Higher disregards for disability-related expenses
- Additional help for carers
- Temporary enhanced support for recently bereaved pensioners
Simplified Application Process
The DWP is also integrating Pension Credit assessments with State Pension claims. This means that when someone applies for the State Pension, DWP staff will now evaluate if the applicant may also be eligible for Pension Credit — reducing the need for separate applications.
In addition, a revamped online calculator and improved customer support hotline have been launched to help people check their eligibility and submit claims.
- Online calculator: www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator
- Claim line: 0800 99 1234
- Apply by post: Use the Freepost DWP Pensions Service address provided on gov.uk
What Is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit designed to help low-income pensioners by topping up their weekly income. On average, eligible claimants can receive an extra £3,500 per year, and the benefit can serve as a gateway to other vital entitlements, including:
- Free NHS dental treatment
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
- Cold Weather Payments
- Free TV Licence (for those over 75)
Don’t Delay – You Could Get Backdated Payments
Claims for Pension Credit can be backdated for up to 3 months, provided the applicant was eligible during that time. This means that applying sooner rather than later can help ensure you don’t miss out on money owed.
To check if you or a loved one may be eligible, visit www.gov.uk/pension-credit.
Helping the Most Vulnerable
With the UK’s ageing population and rising cost of living, the DWP’s renewed efforts are aimed at ensuring that the most financially vulnerable pensioners receive the support they are entitled to.
The proactive strategy is designed not just to raise awareness, but also to streamline access and simplify the application process — which has often been a barrier in the past.
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Himanshu Sharma writes for Weekend Spy, focusing on recruitment, government schemes, and current affairs. He is dedicated to making complex information accessible to readers.
Himanshu enjoys playing chess, hiking, and trying new recipes, always seeking ways to combine his love for writing with his passion for exploration. Connect with Drop him an email at [email protected].
