As living expenses continue to climb in 2025, many retirees in the UK are finding it harder to keep up with basic costs.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers vital financial support through Pension Credit, which can add up to £346.60 per week for eligible couples.
Surprisingly, many pensioners don’t realise they qualify—even if they already receive a State Pension.
This article will guide you through every detail of the £346 Pension Credit 2025, including who qualifies, how much you could receive weekly, how to apply, and why it’s crucial not to miss out.
What is the £346 Pension Credit 2025?
The £346 Pension Credit 2025 is designed to top up the weekly income of low-income pensioners. It includes two key components:
- Guarantee Credit: Ensures your weekly income is at least £227.10 (single) or £346.60 (couple).
- Savings Credit: Rewards pensioners who have some savings or a small private pension, adding up to £17.01 (single) or £19.04 (couple) per week.
Even those who own their homes or have savings could still be eligible for some level of support.
The Credit not only boosts income but also provides access to other benefits such as Council Tax reduction, free NHS prescriptions, and Cold Weather Payments.
Pension Credit Weekly Rates – 2025 Overview
| 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 |
Who Is Eligible for the £346 Pension Credit?
To qualify for Pension Credit in 2025, you must:
- Live in England, Scotland, or Wales
- Be over the State Pension age
- Have a weekly income less than £227.10 (single) or £346.60 (couple)
- Savings under £10,000 won’t affect your claim; anything above will be assessed at £1 per £500
Having a small private pension or modest savings does not disqualify you. Even receiving just £1 per week in Pension Credit could grant access to a wide range of financial support.
How to Claim Your Weekly Pension Credit
You can apply for Pension Credit in three simple ways:
- Online via the gov.uk website
- Phone: Call the Pension Credit Helpline at 0800 99 1234
- Post: Request and return a paper application form
Make sure to have the following ready:
- National Insurance number
- Details of income, savings, and investments
- Bank account information
- Partner’s information (if applicable)
According to the DWP, more than 78% of applications are processed within 50 working days, with back payments also possible if approved.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Pension Credit
Over 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit, but more than 750,000 eligible households haven’t claimed. This means they’re potentially missing out on £3,000 or more each year.
Besides the direct payments, Pension Credit opens the door to additional assistance like:
- Free NHS dental care
- Help with heating and energy costs
- Discounted TV licences
- Free school meals for grandchildren you care for
A small weekly benefit can lead to massive annual savings, reducing stress and enhancing financial security.
The £346 Pension Credit 2025 is one of the most valuable yet underclaimed benefits for pensioners in the UK.
With high living costs impacting retirees, it’s essential to explore every form of financial assistance.
If you or someone you know might qualify, use the Pension Credit calculator on the government website and start the application process today.
Even a modest payment can unlock broader benefits, ease daily stress, and improve overall quality of life in retirement.
FAQs
Can I get Pension Credit if I already receive a State Pension?
Yes, Pension Credit is designed to top up your income even if you’re already receiving a State Pension.
What happens if I have savings over £10,000?
For every £500 over £10,000, £1 is added to your income assessment, which may slightly reduce the credit but doesn’t disqualify you.
How long does it take to receive Pension Credit after applying?
Most successful applications are processed within 50 working days, and you may receive backdated payments as well.
