If you are of State Pension age (aged 66 years or older) and are on a low income, you may be entitled to extra money and support with heating costs.
Pension Credit is worth on average £3,900 per year and unlocks additional support including Winter Fuel Payments, help with Council Tax, NHS dental care and, for those over 75, a free TV licence.
Thanks to the Pension Credit backdating rules, it is possible to apply for Pension Credit and have the claim backdated by up to 3 months as long as there is entitlement during that time.
For further information about Pension Credit please visit www.gov.uk/pension-credit
From 6 April 2026 State Pension age is increasing* from 66 to 67, in incremental stages depending on your date of birth.
The State Pension isn't paid automatically but The Pension Service will send individuals an invitation letter four months before you reach your State Pension age with instructions on how to apply.
If you were born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961, check your State Pension age at gov.uk/state-pension-age
*The increase in State Pension age from 66 to 67 was set out under the Pensions Act 2014. Those born between 6 April 1960 and 5 March 1961 will reach their State Pension age at 66 years and the specified number of months.