If you reach pension age, you may have income from the State Pension or Private Pension schemes. However, if your weekly income does not meet the pension credit threshold (currently £182 per week) you may be able to apply for pension credit. This benefit will increase your weekly pay to £182 each week to ensure you have enough to live on.
Mental Health
If you claim Personal Independence Payments (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or Attendance Allowance due to an illness or disability, it may be that you can claim more Pension Credit. In this case, you may be entitled to an extra £62 per week. If you believe that pension credit may have overlooked this, it is important to seek advice as soon as possible.
Hospital
Your pension credit will continue to be paid in hospital. However, if you get the extra amount for your disability, this will stop when your PIP, DLA or Attendance Allowance are suspended.
Application
You can apply for Pension Credit online or by calling 0800 99 1234. There is also an option of applying by post by printing the form found here
Further information about Pension Credit can be found here:
