Pension credit claims: why are so many rejected?

More than half of the pension claims made between April and 1 December 2024 have been rejected, figures from a freedom-of-information request show.  

The request from pension adviser Quilter revealed just 91,000 people were awarded the payment while 92,000 were turned down by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). 

Deadline fast approaching  

Since the government cut winter fuel payments for all but the poorest pensioners, applications for pension credit have surged.  

The decision to axe the annual winter fuel payment was announced in July. The Labour government said it was to help fix a public finance shortfall. 

The deadline for backdated pension credit claims is 21 December. Claims made before this date can backdate pension credit to September 2024, unlocking the winter fuel payment and other benefits. 

Why are so many claims rejected?  

We don’t know the exact reasons behind the rejections, but common issues are said to include: 

• not meeting the eligibility criteria 

• failing to complete the 24-page, 223-question form properly 

Critics also point out delays, with the average decision wait time now up to 10 weeks. The DWP says it has deployed 500 additional staff to speed up processing.  

What is pension credit? 

Pension credit is a benefit for low-income pensioners, designed to top up your weekly income to a guaranteed minimum amount. 

Who can claim? 

You can apply for pension credit if you: 

• are over state pension age 

• live in the UK 

• have a weekly income below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple 

Even if you have savings, own your home, or receive a private pension, you may still qualify. 

You can find out if you’re eligible by using the pension credit calculator.  

How to apply 

You can apply for pension credit on the government website, by calling 0800 99 1234, or by completing a paper form. You can apply up to 4 months before reaching state pension age.  

You’ll need: 

• your national insurance number 

• details of income, savings and investments 

• bank or account details 

Don’t miss out 

In September, it was estimated that around 880,000 pensioners hadn’t put in a claim despite qualifying for the benefit. 

If you’re not sure if you qualify for pension credit, give us a ring and we’ll check for you. 

We can also help you find out if you're receiving all the benefits you're entitled to, or you can use our free benefits calculator to see if you might be eligible for additional support.