The £346 Pension Credit 2025 is a vital support benefit offered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for low-income retirees in the UK.
Designed to top up pensioners’ weekly income, this credit can make a significant difference for those struggling with rising living costs in 2025.
Even if you already receive a State Pension, you might still qualify for this extra support. That’s where many people miss out—more than 750,000 households are eligible but haven’t claimed. This could mean losing over £3,000 a year in unclaimed benefits.
Weekly Payment Breakdown for 2025
The Pension Credit is made up of two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit. Here’s a detailed table with current weekly payment amounts:
| 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 |
These payments are meant to ensure no eligible retiree falls below a minimum weekly income threshold.
DWP Pension Credit 2025: Why It Matters
The State Pension alone often falls short when it comes to covering everyday essentials like rent, groceries, heating, and medical expenses. The £346 Pension Credit ensures that individuals or couples receive enough to maintain a basic standard of living.
- Single pensioners may receive up to £227.10 weekly
- Couples can receive up to £346.60 weekly
This benefit can also unlock other financial assistance, including:
- Council Tax discounts
- Free NHS prescriptions and dental care
- Cold Weather Payments
- Help with housing and energy bills
Who Is Eligible for the £346 Pension Credit 2025?
To claim the Pension Credit in 2025, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Live in England, Scotland, or Wales
- Be over the State Pension age (currently 66)
- Have weekly income below:
- £227.10 if you’re single
- £346.60 if you’re a couple
Even if you own your home or have modest savings, you might still qualify. However, if your savings exceed £10,000, the DWP adds £1 to your weekly income calculation for every £500 over that amount, which could impact how much you receive.
Guarantee Credit vs Savings Credit: Know the Difference
Guarantee Credit
This is the main component of Pension Credit. It tops up your weekly income to the minimum standard set by the DWP:
- £227.10 for individuals
- £346.60 for couples
Savings Credit
This is a reward for people who have saved modestly for retirement, either through a private pension or other income sources. You may be eligible for:
- Up to £17.01 a week if you’re single
- Up to £19.04 a week as a couple
How to Claim the £346 Pension Credit in 2025
Claiming is simple and free, and you can do it in three different ways:
1. Online
Visit the official gov.uk Pension Credit page and fill out the digital application.
2. By Phone
Call the Pension Credit Helpline:
0800 99 1234
(Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm)
3. By Post
Download the form from the gov.uk website, fill it out, and mail it to the Freepost address listed on the form.
What You’ll Need:
- National Insurance number
- Bank account details
- Income and savings information
- Details for your partner, if applying as a couple
Once your claim is submitted, over 78% of new applications are processed within 50 working days, and backdated payments may also be included.
Why It’s One of the Most Underclaimed Benefits
Many pensioners assume they won’t qualify—especially if they own a home or have small savings. But this is a common misconception. Even if you’re eligible for just £1 per week, it could unlock access to thousands in extra support annually.
The DWP encourages all pensioners to check eligibility, as over £1.7 billion in Pension Credit goes unclaimed each year.
If you’re a pensioner on a limited income, the £346 Pension Credit 2025 could be a lifeline—one that helps you manage essential costs, access further benefits, and live more securely in retirement. Don’t assume you’re ineligible. Take a few minutes to check your eligibility and submit your application.
With weekly payments of up to £346.60, you could boost your income significantly and gain access to a wide range of additional support services. The process is quick, free, and could result in a life-changing benefit.
FAQs
Can I get Pension Credit if I already receive State Pension?
Yes. Even if you receive the State Pension, you can qualify for Pension Credit if your weekly income is below the threshold.
How long does it take to receive my Pension Credit after applying?
The DWP processes 78% of applications within 50 working days, and you may receive backdated payments from the date you first qualified.
Will having savings or a house disqualify me from Pension Credit?
Not necessarily. Savings over £10,000 are considered in the income calculation, but owning property does not automatically disqualify you.