Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has warned that 900,000 state pensioners are missing out on Pension Credit, a vital income top-up from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). According to government figures cited by Lewis, this means nearly 40% of the 2.3 million eligible pensioners are not claiming the means-tested benefit, which is designed to guarantee a basic minimum income.
What is Pension Credit and who qualifies?
Pension Credit is a tax-free, means-tested benefit aimed at supporting pensioners on a restricted income. The guarantee credit component ensures a minimum weekly income of £238 for a single person or £363.25 for a couple in 2026/27. Lewis described the situation as "not good enough," stressing that the poorest pensioners are missing out on a crucial financial lifeline.
Beyond the basic top-up, eligibility for Pension Credit can unlock additional assistance, including a free TV licence and help with NHS dental and eyecare costs. Extra weekly payments may also be available for those with disabilities, caring responsibilities, children, or specific housing costs, alongside potential Savings Credit for those who saved before April 2016.
Martin Lewis urges pensioners to check eligibility
Speaking on the matter, Mr Lewis said: "If the triple lock on pensions will be scrapped. The 1st priority is to fix Pension Credit - the top up for the lowest earning pensioners to give them a basic minimum income." He added: "Shamefully many 100,000s of the poorest pensions still miss out on what they're entitled to."
Lewis also highlighted the scale of the issue, stating: "According to the govt's own figures still 900,000 of the very poorest pensioners (out of 2.3m eligible) missing out on the crucial Pension Credit income top up! It's not good enough." The warning comes as the DWP continues to encourage take-up, but the numbers remain high.
Impact and next steps for pensioners
The guarantee credit serves as a "top-up" to ensure pensioners meet a minimum weekly income, which has been set at £238 for a single person and £363.25 for a couple in 2026/27. For those who qualify, the benefit can make a significant difference to their financial situation, particularly amid rising living costs.
Pensioners who think they may be eligible are urged to check their entitlement, as the benefit can also open the door to other forms of support. The DWP has previously run campaigns to boost take-up, but the latest figures suggest many are still not claiming what they are owed.
