Marvin OnumonuThe Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has awarded 162,800 Pension Credit claims since the winter fuel payment rules were changed to means-testing.
This is a 57% rise, or 58,800 more awards, compared to the same period last year.
Since the Government announced the changes to winter fuel payments, there were 285,600 Pension Credit claims between 29th July 2024 and 25th May 2025, a 51% increase or 96,200 more applications than the previous year.
In 2024/25, DWP received 321,000 Pension Credit applications, up 28% on 2023/24.
Stephen Lowe, group communications director at Just Group, said: “The take up of Pension Credit has been subject to a harsh spotlight since the Government first limited the winter fuel payments to people who are in receipt of Pension Credit or certain other means-tested benefits.
“There has been a significant boost in take-up with more than 162,000 claims awarded since the means-testing of the winter fuel payment was introduced.
“This is a significant success that will see these low-income pensioner households receiving this much-needed financial support as well as unlocking the gateway to other valuable benefits, like the winter fuel payments and free TV license.”
Lowe added: “The Prime Minister recently confirmed that eligibility for winter fuel payments will be widened, but this should not distract attention from the important job of work to be done to increase the take up of Pension Credit.
“This benefit is specifically targeted at the poorest pensioners and it remains a concern that there are still around 700,000 families that are eligible for Pension Credit but not claiming it.
“These people may be failing to claim for a number of reasons – they may simply be unaware of the benefit, not know how to claim or assume they are not eligible if they own their own home.”
He added: “Just’s research conducted this year among people aged over 66 found that four in 10 (40%) homeowners and one in seven (15%) of renters had never checked their benefit entitlement.
“The Government’s awareness drive is having a positive impact with the number of claims increasing noticeably, but there are people still missing out on this valuable help.
“If you think you, or a member of your family, may be entitled to Pension Credit there are a range of free resources to help check eligibility.”
