Pension Credit is worth over £4,500 a year on average, says MP David Smith. You can own your home or have savings and still qualify. Age UK offers free help.

Pensioners in North Northumberland are being urged to check whether they qualify for Pension Credit. David Smith, the constituency’s MP, says many older people could be missing out on support worth an average of more than £4,500 a year.

Owning a home does not rule you out. Nor does having some savings or other income.

Independent Age, the older people’s charity, found that more than a million older people on low incomes were eligible but did not receive it in 2023/4. Its review of the government’s take-up figures puts the share of eligible households claiming at 62%.

“It’s always worth checking”

Mr Smith said his office had seen the effect on people in the constituency.

“At a time when many pensioners are feeling the pressure of rising household costs, I want to make sure everyone in North Northumberland is getting the support they are entitled to,” he said.

“Far too many people are missing out on Pension Credit because they don’t realise they qualify. It’s always worth checking, even if you own your own home or have some savings.

“My office has helped people in North Northumberland access Pension Credit after they got in touch, often about something else, not realising they were eligible. We’ve seen what a difference it can make. For some, it’s meant a welcome boost to their income; for others, it’s eased the worry of rising bills.

“Pension Credit is worth more than £4,500 a year on average and can make a real difference to people’s finances. If you think you, a family member, friend or neighbour might be eligible, please take a few minutes to find out. I don’t want anyone to miss out on support that could help them enjoy a more secure retirement.”

What it means for you

Pension Credit is extra money for people over State Pension age on a low income. It is separate from the State Pension. These figures come from the GOV.UK Pension Credit guide, checked on 4 November 2026.

  • Income: it tops up weekly income to £238 if you are single, or £363.25 jointly if you have a partner.
  • Higher income: you might still qualify if you have a disability, care for someone, have savings or have housing costs.
  • Savings: £10,000 or less does not affect your claim. Above that, every £500 counts as £1 of weekly income.
  • Backdating: a new claim can be backdated by up to 3 months.
Key Pension Credit figures: income topped up to £238 a week if single or £363.25 jointly with a partner, savings of £10,000 or less do not affect a claim, claims backdated up to 3 months, claim line 0800 99 1234, Age UK Northumberland 01670 784 800.
The main Pension Credit figures and who to call. Graphic by The Northumberland Post
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A successful claim can open the door to other help. GOV.UK lists:

  • Cold Weather Payments
  • a Council Tax Reduction
  • help with heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme
  • Housing Benefit if you rent
  • a free TV licence if you are 75 or over
  • help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and hospital transport costs, if you get the Guarantee Credit part

How to check or claim

Age UK Northumberland offers free, confidential and independent advice on eligibility and on making a claim.

You can also apply online or by post, or call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234, Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. A friend or family member can make the call for you if you cannot use the phone.