Could Pension credit help you to make ends meet if you’re struggling to get by on your pension?

Pension credit could top up your weekly income while also giving you access to other types of help.

Question:

‘I’m really struggling financially on my pension, especially with the cost-of-living crisis. What support can I get to help make ends meet?’ 

Answer:

If you’re over state pension age and on a low income, you may be eligible for the Guarantee credit element of Pension credit. This gives you extra money to help with living costs, by topping up your weekly income. 

It’s estimated that two out of five people entitled to this miss out because they don’t claim it.

Who can claim? 

Whether you’re eligible for Guarantee pension credit depends on your income and how much you’re seen as needing. For example, the amount needed to live on will be set higher if you’re disabled or someone’s carer. 

When calculating your income, some benefits such as Attendance allowance and Personal independence payment won’t be included. This means you can keep them in addition to getting Pension credit. 

If you live with a partner or spouse, you must both be over state pension age to claim. The income, savings or capital you both have affects how much Pension credit you may get. If you have over £10,000 in capital – not including the home you live in – you can still claim, but you will get less. 

Passport to more 

Even if Guarantee pension credit only tops up your income by a small amount, claiming it could allow you to access other types of help. These can all add up to make a big difference, including: 

  • a free TV licence if you’re over 75 
  • full Housing benefit and Council tax support 
  • free dental treatment 
  • help towards the cost of glasses and hospital travel fares 
  • help with the cost of heating your home. 

You may also qualify for mortgage interest loans and budgeting loans, if you need money for things such as furniture, home maintenance or clothing. Unlike the help listed above, these are loans that must be paid back, so make sure it’s right for you before applying. 

Applying and more help

See government information for more about Pension credit and to apply for it. Some organisations, such as those listed at the end of this article, could give you a free benefits check and help with filling out forms. 

If you’re struggling to make ends meet in the meantime, you may be able to get short-term help with food, bills or household items.

Contact your local authority to see what’s available in your area. This could be through something called the Discretionary Assistance Fund in Wales, Discretionary support in Northern Ireland, or a welfare assistance scheme or household support fund in England. 

Benefits checks and advice 

Dementia together magazine is for all Alzheimer’s Society supporters and anyone affected by the condition.
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