There are a number of benefits you may be eligible for if you, or someone you care for, is disabled or has a long-term illness.
Pension Credit for kinship carers
Pension Credit is an extra amount paid by the government to top up your living costs if you’re on a low income and over State Pension age.
This advice applies to: England and Wales
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What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age. It is an extra amount paid by the government to top up your living costs if you’re on a low income. The amount you get will depend on your overall household income.
If you have a partner, you will also need to include them in your claim as both your savings and income will need to be calculated together.
If you already receive Pension Credit and your circumstances change, for example you’ve started or stopped living with a partner, you must contact the Pension Services helpline.
If your partner is below State Pension age
If you are in a couple, and only one of you is pension age, you are still considered a working age couple. This means mixed aged couples cannot apply for Pension Credit and will need to claim Universal Credit instead.
The exception is if one of you is over State Pension age and receiving Housing Benefit. Then you can apply for Pension Credit even if your partner is below pension age.
Tax credits ended on 5 April 2025. If you are a retired kinship carer receiving Child Tax Credits or Working Tax Credits, you will have been sent a letter to tell you to claim Universal Credit or Pension Credit instead, depending on your circumstances.
Pension Credit, other income, benefits and savings
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit. When you apply for Pension Credit, your other income, benefits and savings will be considered, including:
- your State Pension
- other pensions, like work pensions or private pensions if you have them
- any earnings from employment and self-employment
- most social security benefits, for example Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Working Tax Credit
- savings or capital over £10,000
Child Benefit, Disability Living Allowance and Winter Fuel Allowance do not count as income.
How much will I get?
Pension Credit tops up:
- your weekly income to £218.15 if you’re single
- your weekly joint income to £332.95 if you have a partner
You may get extra amounts, called Guarantee Credit, if you have other responsibilities and costs. This includes if you’re responsible for a child or young person who lives with you and is under 20 years old.
There is more information about how much you can get on GOV.UK’s website.
How to apply for Pension Credit
You can apply for Pension Credit online at GOV.UK.
When you apply, you will need the following (for yourself and your partner if you have one):
- National Insurance number
- details of your income and pensions
- details of money, savings and investments (usually for the last 3 months)
Related advice and information
Stepping up to raise a child can be expensive, and money worries are common for kinship carers. Find out what financial support and benefits are available to you.
Universal Credit is a payment by the Government to help cover your living costs if you’re of working age.
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