10. Who is entitled to Pension Credits?
State Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit administered by the Pension Service. You can get Pension Credit whether or not you are working.
There are two parts to Pension Credit: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.
Guarantee Credit is for people over 60. It works by topping up your income to a basic level, based upon your circumstances. A portion of your income is calculated as coming from any savings you might have over £6,000, or over £10,000 if you live in a care home.
Savings Credit is for people aged 65 or over who have other income beside the state pension. For example, you may have an occupational pension or a private pension, earnings, money from savings or money from tenants. Savings Credit tops up this other income if it is between certain limits. Savings Credit is paid to you on top of any Guarantee Credit. You may also claim Savings Credit if your income is too high to receive Guarantee Credit.
If you want more information on claiming Pension Credit, call the Pension Credit application line on 0800 99 1234. Remember that you may also be entitled to other benefits depending on your circumstances.
If you need help dealing with Pension Credits or any other aspect of welfare benefits, we recommend that you speak to one of our welfare benefit advisers on 0845 345 4 345 for specialist advice. Telephone specialist advice is only available if you qualify for legal aid.