Low-income state pensioners may receive an additional £925 in May 2026, on top of their regular Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) payments. This follows a 4.8% increase in Pension Credit, which has been uprated by the government.
Who qualifies for Pension Credit?
If you are retired and have an income of less than £238 per week as an individual, or £363 per week as a couple, you may be eligible for Pension Credit. On average, this benefit is worth £4,300 per year. The DWP stated: “The government has already delivered above-inflation increases worth up to £395 in real terms over this Parliament. By its end, pensioners’ annual incomes are expected to rise by up to £2,100 – boosting financial security for millions.”
How to check eligibility
According to Money Saving Expert (MSE), founded by Martin Lewis, if your total income is under £238 per week (£363 for a couple), you are likely to receive Pension Credit. If your income is under £250 per week (£380 for a couple), there is still a chance you may qualify, depending on your circumstances. MSE adds: “There’s a higher threshold if you claim certain disability benefits or have caring responsibilities, so if this is you it’s worth checking.”
Additional benefits
The DWP notes: “Pension Credit will also rise by 4.8% and be worth an average of £4,300 a year, unlocking further support including help with housing costs, council tax and free television licenses. Between 2026 and 2027, the government will provide a £6 billion boost to spending on State Pensions and pensioner benefits.”
Labour Party Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell commented: “We’re committed to supporting harder-up pensioners however we can. Pension Credit is a simple way to give those who need it the most some extra support with bills or a free TV licence. I’d urge anyone who thinks they, or anyone they know, might be able to claim Pension Credit, to take a few minutes out of their day to check and apply. This country’s pensioners deserve every penny they are entitled to.”
