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900,000 UK Pensioners Miss Out on Pension Credit

4/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Martin Lewis, money expert, criticized the UK government after the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) disclosed that around 900,000 eligible pensioners do not claim Pension Credit.
The DWP notes Pension Credit can top up weekly income to £238.00 for singles and £363.25 for couples.
Lewis highlighted a slight rise in claims after Pension Credit linked to the Winter Fuel Payment, while the DWP aims to improve access with awards.

History

Historical Context

The UK's Pension Credit, launched in 2003, aimed to reduce poverty among seniors, benefiting around 1.8 million pensioners with weekly payments of up to £238. Despite this, approximately 900,000 eligible pensioners still do not claim this support, highlighting ongoing challenges in social welfare outreach. This situation reflects historical gaps in pension systems, dating back to the Old Age Pensions Act of 1908.

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Story summary

Martin Lewis, money expert, criticized the UK government after the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) disclosed that around 900,000 eligible pensioners do not claim Pension Credit.
The DWP notes Pension Credit can top up weekly income to £238.00 for singles and £363.25 for couples.
Lewis highlighted a slight rise in claims after Pension Credit linked to the Winter Fuel Payment, while the DWP aims to improve access with awards.

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