Pension Credit claims can be backdated by up to three months and provide access to heating help later this year.
The UK government has announced that new Pension Credit claims, which can provide an annual income boost of £4,200, could be processed within 50 working days. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirmed that 77% of new claims were processed within this timeframe last year, with the current average processing time being 52.8 working days. Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit aimed at older people on low incomes, with two types: Guarantee Credit, which tops up weekly income to a minimum amount, and Savings Credit, which provides additional support based on income and savings. Eligibility for Guarantee Credit requires a weekly income below £218.15 for singles or £332.95 for couples, while Savings Credit is available to those with qualifying income above certain thresholds. Pension Credit claims can be backdated by up to three months, and successful claims made this month could result in payments and arrears by mid-May. The benefit also provides access to additional support, such as help with heating costs, housing benefits, and council tax discounts. Pensioners can check eligibility and apply online via GOV.UK or contact the Pension Credit helpline.
