Data shows the DWP has processed a record 117,800 successful claims, the highest since comparisons began in 2020.

Pension Credit applications have reached record numbers after the Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) Winter Fuel Payment axe. Data shows the DWP has processed a record 117,800 successful claims, the highest since comparisons began in 2020.

Officials have reduced the backlog of applications for Pension Credit, which is worth £4,200, from a peak of 85,500 to just 33,700 by 23 February 2025. Liz Kendall, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to reach so many pensioners who need to be on Pension Credit, which can be a lifeline to so many on low incomes.

“The record high number of claims awarded follows months of work to drive awareness of Pension Credit and then to process the huge spike in applications we received, and now thousands more pensioners are accessing the range of support on offer.

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“We won’t stop there. We are absolutely committed to ensuring every pensioner is supported in their retirement whether through our ongoing Pension Credit campaign, extending the Household Support Fund and our commitment to the triple lock on the state pension.”

Sarah Pennells, consumer finance specialist at Royal London, said: “There was a lot of focus on December’s deadline to claim Pension Credit in order to qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment for 2024, but people can apply for Pension Credit any time, and it could be worth over £4,000 a year.”

The exact rules of who can get Pension Credit are complex, so Money Saving Expert have a simple rule of thumb for those of state pension age (currently 66 or older). If you’re single with total weekly income under £218 you’re likely to get it. If you have a weekly income of under £235 then you may get it.

If you’re a couple, both of pension age, with total weekly income under £333 you’re likely to get it. If you have a weekly income of under £350 then you may get it.