Thousands of UK pensioners living on limited income may now be eligible for up to £346.60 per week through the DWP £346 Pension Credit 2025.
This support is provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to assist elderly individuals and couples in covering essential living expenses. Whether you own your home or have savings, you may still qualify.
This article breaks down the eligibility, rates, benefits, and how to claim Pension Credit on a weekly basis in 2025.
What is DWP Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit designed to top up weekly income for retirees who have reached State Pension age and have limited financial resources. It includes two parts:
- Guarantee Credit: Ensures your income meets a minimum threshold.
- Savings Credit: A bonus for those with modest savings or income beyond the basic State Pension.
Over 1.4 million pensioners currently benefit from Pension Credit, but an estimated 750,000 eligible households still haven’t claimed.
Weekly Payment Rates for 2025
Here’s a detailed table showing the updated weekly Pension Credit amounts for 2025:
| Category | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Single (Guarantee Credit) | £227.10 |
| Couple (Guarantee Credit) | £346.60 |
| Savings Credit (Single) | £17.01 |
| Savings Credit (Couple) | £19.04 |
| Severe Disability Addition | £82.90 |
| Carer Addition | £46.40 |
| Child Addition (per child) | £61.88 |
The average annual support has now increased to £4,300 per household.
Eligibility Criteria for Pension Credit 2025
You may be eligible if:
- You live in England, Scotland, or Wales.
- You or your partner are of State Pension age.
- Your weekly income is below:
- £227.10 for singles
- £346.60 for couples
If you have savings over £10,000, your income is considered to increase by £1 per £500.
Importantly, owning property or having savings doesn’t disqualify you. Even a small amount of weekly support can unlock other benefits such as:
- Free NHS dental treatment
- Cold Weather Payments
- Council Tax reductions
- Housing cost support
How to Apply for DWP Pension Credit
You can apply for Pension Credit through one of the following ways:
1. Online Application
Visit the official gov.uk website and fill out the Pension Credit form.
2. Phone Application
Call 0800 99 1234 (Monday–Friday, 8am–6pm) and apply with the help of an advisor.
3. Postal Application
Download, print, and complete the form from the gov.uk website, then post it to the designated Freepost address.
The DWP processes over 78% of new claims within 50 working days, meaning if you apply today, you could receive your first payment along with backdated pay by July 2025.
Why You Should Claim Pension Credit Now
Despite eligibility, many older adults miss out because they assume their income or savings make them ineligible. But even a £1 payment qualifies you for many additional benefits.
With millions of pounds unclaimed, Pension Credit is one of the most underused financial supports in the UK. By applying, you could increase your weekly income, improve your quality of life, and gain access to numerous supportive services.
The DWP £346 Pension Credit 2025 is more than just a financial lifeline—it’s a gateway to stability and dignity in retirement.
If you or a loved one might qualify, take action now. With weekly support of up to £346.60, and an average yearly value of £4,300, this benefit can transform the financial situation of low-income pensioners.
Check your eligibility using the online Pension Credit calculator, and apply today to secure the help you deserve.
FAQs
Can I get Pension Credit if I have savings?
Yes, you can still claim it. Savings over £10,000 are considered, but they do not automatically disqualify you.
How long does it take to get my first Pension Credit payment?
The DWP processes most claims within 50 working days, with payments and back pay often starting in the next available month.
Can homeowners receive Pension Credit?
Absolutely. Owning your home does not prevent you from qualifying for this benefit.