Does Pension Credit affect Winter Fuel Payment?

Yes — from winter 2024/25, the Winter Fuel Payment in England and Wales is means-tested and only payable to households getting Pension Credit (or certain other means-tested benefits). Backdate a Pension Credit claim within 3 months to receive the WFP for that winter.

What counts as income for Pension Credit?

State Pension, private pensions, earnings, most benefits and an assumed income from savings above £10,000 (£1/week per £500). Some benefits like Disability Living Allowance, PIP and Attendance Allowance don't count.

Can I get Pension Credit if I own my home?

Yes — the value of your home doesn't count for Pension Credit. Savings above £10,000 affect the calculation but don't disqualify.

Eligibility · Pension Credit

Am I eligible for Pension Credit?

In short. If you're State Pension age and your weekly income is under £227.10 (single) or £346.60 (couple) for 2025/26, you may qualify for Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit). Around 760,000 eligible pensioners don't claim it — and missing out also loses the Winter Fuel Payment from 2024/25.

Pension Credit tops up low income in retirement. It's also a 'passport' to free TV licences (over 75s), the Winter Fuel Payment, Council Tax reductions, NHS costs and Cold Weather Payments.

Last reviewed: 26 May 2026

·Amount: Guarantee Credit tops weekly income up to £227.10 (single) / £346.60 (couple) — 2025/26. Savings Credit (older claimants only) up to £17.30/wk single, £19.36/wk couple

You likely qualify if…

You and your partner are both at State Pension age
Your weekly income is below the appropriate threshold
You live in the UK
Mixed-age couples reaching State Pension age before 15 May 2019 may still qualify

You likely don't if…

You're below State Pension age (claim Universal Credit instead)
Most mixed-age couples claiming for the first time after 15 May 2019
Your income (including most pensions) exceeds the threshold

How to check and claim

01The official Pension Credit calculator is at gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator
02The Pension Credit claim line is 0800 99 1234 (8am–6pm, Mon–Fri)
03Applications can be made online at gov.uk/pension-credit, by phone or by post

FAQ

Does Pension Credit affect Winter Fuel Payment?: Yes — from winter 2024/25, the Winter Fuel Payment in England and Wales is means-tested and only payable to households getting Pension Credit (or certain other means-tested benefits). Backdate a Pension Credit claim within 3 months to receive the WFP for that winter.
What counts as income for Pension Credit?: State Pension, private pensions, earnings, most benefits and an assumed income from savings above £10,000 (£1/week per £500). Some benefits like Disability Living Allowance, PIP and Attendance Allowance don't count.
Can I get Pension Credit if I own my home?: Yes — the value of your home doesn't count for Pension Credit. Savings above £10,000 affect the calculation but don't disqualify.

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