Pension Credit – claim early, it can only be backdated 3 months

If you have reached State Pension age and are on a low income, you may be entitled to Pension Credit. You can apply up to 4 months before you reach State Pension age. Later claims can only be backdated 3 months.

Deadline

No fixed deadline

Last checked

Checked against the official source: 21 October 2026

What if you miss the deadline? There is no final deadline, but a claim can only be backdated by 3 months. Every month you wait beyond that is lost.

Pension Credit tops up a low weekly income for people who have reached State Pension age. It is for people living in England, Scotland or Wales; Northern Ireland has its own scheme on nidirect. Savings of £10,000 or less do not affect it.

How to do it

1. Check if you're eligible on GOV.UK. If you have a partner, you must include them in the claim.
2. Have your National Insurance number, details of income, savings and investments, and bank details ready.
3. Apply online if you have already applied for your State Pension.
4. Or call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm). A friend or family member can call for you.
5. You can also claim by post with the Pension Credit claim form.

Common questions

How far back can Pension Credit be backdated?

Up to 3 months, if you were eligible during that time.

When can I apply for Pension Credit?

You can start your application up to 4 months before you reach State Pension age, or any time after.

Do savings stop me getting Pension Credit?

Savings of £10,000 or less do not affect it. Above that, every £500 over £10,000 counts as £1 of weekly income.

Official source: gov.uk (opens in a new tab)

This information is not legal or tax advice.