Thousands of pensioners across the UK could be missing out on an extra £86 a week in financial support — and many do not even realise they qualify.
With living costs still stretching household budgets, particularly for older residents on fixed incomes, even modest additional support can make a real difference. That is why campaigners and officials are encouraging eligible State Pensioners to check whether they can claim this boost.
But what exactly is the £86 figure? Is it automatic? And who qualifies?
Here is a clear, practical guide explaining how the payment works, who may be eligible, and how to check your entitlement.
What Is the £86 a Week Boost
The £86 weekly figure commonly refers to additional income available through means‑tested support administered by the Department for Work and Pensions.
It is not a standard increase to the State Pension itself.
Instead, it usually relates to top‑up benefits designed to ensure pensioners have a minimum guaranteed income level.
In many cases, this support is provided through Pension Credit.
Understanding Pension Credit
Pension Credit is designed to top up weekly income if it falls below a certain threshold.
There are two main parts:
Guarantee Credit
Savings Credit
Guarantee Credit ensures your weekly income does not fall below the minimum level set by the government.
Savings Credit offers extra support to those who have modest savings or additional retirement income.
The £86 figure often reflects the difference between someone’s current income and the guaranteed minimum threshold.
Why So Many Pensioners Miss Out
Despite being eligible, hundreds of thousands of pensioners do not claim Pension Credit.
Common reasons include:
Believing they have too much savings
Assuming the State Pension alone disqualifies them
Thinking the application process is complicated
Not realising small top‑ups are available
In reality, even a small weekly top‑up can unlock wider support.
Who Could Qualify
You may qualify for additional weekly income if:
You have reached State Pension age
Your weekly income is below the minimum threshold
Your savings are below certain capital limits
Savings above £10,000 may affect the amount you receive, but they do not automatically disqualify you.
Even homeowners can qualify, as your main home is not counted as capital.
How the £86 Figure Is Calculated
The actual amount you receive depends on your personal circumstances.
For example:
If your weekly income is significantly below the guarantee level, your top‑up may exceed £86.
If your income is only slightly below the threshold, your top‑up may be smaller.
The £86 figure is often used as an example of a typical shortfall for single pensioners with modest income.
Does This Affect the State Pension
No.
Pension Credit does not replace your State Pension.
Your State Pension continues as normal. Pension Credit simply adds a top‑up if you qualify.
It is paid separately and usually deposited into your bank account on a regular basis.
Additional Benefits Linked to Pension Credit
Claiming Pension Credit can unlock further financial support, including:
Free TV licence (for eligible age groups)
Council Tax Reduction
Cold Weather Payments
Help with NHS costs
Housing Benefit
This means the real financial value can be higher than £86 a week once other entitlements are included.
Example Scenario
Imagine a single pensioner receiving £180 per week from their State Pension and small private pension combined.
If the minimum income guarantee threshold is higher than their current weekly income, Pension Credit may top up the difference.
If the shortfall is £86, that becomes their weekly boost.
Over a year, that amounts to more than £4,000 — a significant sum for many households.
Do Couples Qualify
Yes.
Couples are assessed jointly.
The income threshold for couples is higher than for single claimants.
If combined income falls below that level, a weekly top‑up may be payable.
Each partner’s income and savings are considered during assessment.
How to Apply
Applying for Pension Credit can be done:
Online through GOV.UK
By phone via the Pension Credit claim line
By post using a paper form
You will typically need details of:
Income
Savings
Housing costs
National Insurance number
The process is usually straightforward and can often be completed within a single call.
Is It Backdated
If you qualify, Pension Credit can often be backdated for up to three months — provided you were eligible during that period.
This means you could receive a lump sum covering missed weeks.
Checking sooner rather than later can prevent lost entitlement.
What About Savings
Savings do not automatically prevent a claim.
If you have over £10,000 in savings, it may reduce the amount you receive slightly, but support can still be available.
For every £500 above the threshold, a small amount is assumed as additional income.
However, many pensioners with modest savings still qualify.
Will Claiming Affect Other Benefits
Claiming Pension Credit may actually increase overall entitlement because it acts as a gateway benefit.
It does not reduce your State Pension.
Instead, it can provide stability and wider access to support schemes.
Why the DWP Is Encouraging Claims
The Department for Work and Pensions has actively encouraged eligible pensioners to check their entitlement.
Uptake remains lower than expected, meaning significant sums go unclaimed each year.
Ensuring older residents receive support they are entitled to helps reduce financial hardship and improve quality of life.
Common Misconceptions
I own my home so I cannot qualify
This is incorrect — your main home is ignored.
I have savings so I am not eligible
Savings may reduce entitlement but do not always eliminate it.
The amount is too small to bother
Even £20–£30 per week adds up, and it can unlock other benefits.
The process is complicated
Applications are generally straightforward and support is available.
Why £86 a Week Matters
£86 a week can cover:
A weekly grocery shop
Energy costs during winter
Transport expenses
Unexpected household repairs
Over a year, it can significantly strengthen financial security.
For many pensioners, it provides breathing space in tight monthly budgets.
Key Points to Remember
The £86 boost usually refers to Pension Credit top‑ups.
It is not an automatic increase to the State Pension.
Eligibility depends on income and savings.
Your main home is not counted as capital.
Claiming can unlock additional benefits.
What You Should Do Now
If you are unsure whether you qualify:
Check your total weekly income
Review your savings balance
Use the official online Pension Credit calculator
Contact the Pension Credit helpline for guidance
Even if you believe you are only slightly below the threshold, it is worth checking.
Final Thoughts
Many pensioners assume that once they begin receiving the State Pension, there is nothing more to claim. In reality, additional support may be available — and it can be substantial.
An extra £86 a week may not sound life‑changing at first glance, but over time it adds up to thousands of pounds. More importantly, it can unlock access to other support that improves overall financial stability.
If you or someone you know is of State Pension age and managing on a tight income, taking a few minutes to check eligibility could make a meaningful difference.
Financial support exists to ensure dignity and security in retirement — and claiming what you are entitled to is not only sensible, it is your right.