Regional gaps in pension credit uptake - make sure you’re not missing out

Pension credit is a benefit that helps older people with low incomes. It can give up to £4,300 a year, but many pensioners who are eligible for it aren’t claiming it.

New research shows people in some areas are missing out more than others.

A new trial is trying to change that. The government trial, in partnership with Age UK and Independent Age, sends letters to 2,000 pensioners in England who could be getting pension credit but aren’t. These letters encourage them to apply.

The regional gap in pension credit claims

The research from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) found big differences in how many pensioners claim pension credit depending on where they live.

In some areas, up to 70% of eligible pensioners are claiming the benefit, while in other areas, fewer than 60% are.

Here’s how the different regions compare:

• England – 63%
• Wales – 64%
• Scotland – 67%
• North East – 71%
• North West – 67%
• Yorkshire and The Humber – 64%
• East Midlands – 61%
• West Midlands – 65%
• East of England – 58%
• London – 69%
• South East – 56%
• South West – 55%

As you can see, take-up rates are highest in the North East at 71%, but they fall to 55% in the South West.

Many pensions are therefore missing out on financial support that could help with daily expenses like bills or even things like a free TV licence.

Why is pension credit so important?

Pension credit provides a financial top-up for those over the state pension age and living on a low income. It ensures pensioners are guaranteed a minimum income, making it easier for them to cover basic living costs.

The exact amount you could receive depends on whether you’re single or in a couple:

• single pensioner: £78.23 a week on average
• couple: £114.99 a week on average
• overall average: £82.71 a week

Even if you have savings, own your home, or receive a private pension, you may still qualify.  You can find out if you’re eligible by using the pension credit calculator.  

Why are so many missing out?

The reason why so many pensioners aren’t claiming pension credit isn’t always clear. It could be due to a lack of awareness about the benefit, confusion about eligibility, or simply not knowing how easy it is to apply.

Minister for pensions Torsten Bell said: “I’d urge anyone who thinks they, or anyone they know, might be able to claim pension credit, to take a few minutes out of their day to check and apply. This country’s pensioners deserve every penny they are entitled to.”

How to apply for pension credit

You can apply for pension credit on the government website, by calling 0800 99 1234, or by completing a paper form. You can apply up to four months before reaching state pension age.  

You’ll need: 

• your national insurance number 

• details of income, savings and investments 

• bank or account details 

Don’t miss out 

If you’re not sure if you qualify for pension credit, give us a ring and we’ll check for you. 

We can also help you find out if you're receiving all the benefits you're entitled to, or you can use our free benefits calculator to see if you might be eligible for additional support.