Pension Credit claim checklist

Get your records ready for a Pension Credit claim. Tick off what you have, then save a copy to use with the Pension Service.

Great Britain · sources checked 12 September 2026. Northern Ireland has its own claim route.

Tick off what you have ready, then save or print your list. Your ticks reset when you reload.

Your preparation checklistAge, household and residence circumstancesCheck the applicable rules for you and any partner, especially if only one person has reached State Pension age.Identity details ready for the official serviceLocate the National Insurance information needed for you and any partner. Keep it off this page.Income and pension statementsPrepare State Pension, workplace/private pension, earnings and benefit records. Include pensions available but not yet claimed.Savings and investment recordsHave current balances and ownership details ready for the official assessment.Circumstances that could affect extra amountsGather relevant disability awards, caring responsibilities, dependent-child and eligible housing-cost information.Earlier records if asking for backdatingKeep evidence for the relevant period. Backdating can cover up to three months only where entitlement existed.Payment details ready for the official serviceFind your bank/building-society details for the claim. Do not send them to Pension Bible.Choose the appropriate official next stepUse the calculator if it supports your circumstances, or contact the Pension Service. Check the available online, phone and postal claim routes.

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Continue when you have the information

Source basis: GOV.UK eligibility, extra amounts and the official claim guidance linked above. DWP determines entitlement; completed ticks do not guarantee an award.