The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has rolled out a lifeline for state pensioners living together, offering up to £346 per week through Pension Credit. This financial support, aimed at low-income pensioners, has grabbed attention as a way to ease the burden of rising living costs across the UK. With around 700,000 eligible pensioners still not claiming this benefit, the DWP is urging couples to check if they qualify for this vital boost to their weekly income.
What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a benefit designed to help pensioners on low incomes cover daily expenses. For couples living together, it can top up their combined weekly income to £346.60. Single pensioners, on the other hand, can receive up to £227.10 per week. The payment is tax-free and can also unlock extra help, such as discounts on housing costs, Council Tax, and even a free TV licence for those over 75. Many pensioners miss out because they think owning a home or having savings disqualifies them, but the DWP says this isn’t always the case.
Who Can Claim the £346 Payment?
To qualify for Pension Credit, couples must meet certain criteria. Both partners need to be of state pension age, which is currently 66, by the end of the qualifying week (September 15–21, 2025). Their combined weekly income should be less than £346.60, though extra payments are available if one partner has a severe disability (an additional £82.90 per week). The DWP considers income from pensions, savings, and some earnings, but small savings or home ownership don’t automatically rule you out. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Both partners must be 66 or older by September 21, 2025 |
| Weekly Income | Combined income below £346.60 |
| Extra Support | Additional £82.90/week if one partner has a severe disability |
| Residency | Must live in the UK |
| Other Benefits | Can unlock help with housing, Council Tax, and TV licence (if over 75) |
Why Pensioners Aren’t Claiming
Despite its benefits, many pensioners aren’t claiming Pension Credit. The DWP estimates that 700,000 eligible people are missing out, often because they assume they won’t qualify. Some think their savings or home ownership make them ineligible, while others are unaware the benefit exists. The application process, which takes around 50 working days for most claims, can also feel daunting. However, the DWP is working to simplify things and encourage more pensioners to apply, highlighting that the average annual boost is worth £4,300.
How to Apply and What’s Next
Applying for Pension Credit is straightforward. Pensioners can contact the DWP by phone, post, or online to start their claim. The process involves sharing details about income, savings, and living arrangements. Once approved, payments are backdated to the date of application, so there’s no reason to delay. The DWP is also promoting awareness through campaigns, urging pensioners to check their eligibility before winter, when extra costs like heating can hit hard. With living costs still high, this payment could make a real difference for couples struggling to make ends meet.
This £346 weekly payment is a game-changer for many pensioner couples, offering not just financial relief but also access to other support. As the DWP pushes to get more people claiming, now is the time for eligible pensioners to act. Checking eligibility takes just a few minutes and could lead to a significant boost in income, helping couples live more comfortably in 2025.
