•Pension credit (PC) is a benefit for people on a low income who are at least pension age.

•There are two types of PC: guarantee credit, which ensures a minimum level of income, and savings credit. You can be entitled to either guarantee credit or savings credit or to both.

•PC is a means-tested benefit.

•PC can include additional amounts for severe disability, carers, for a child or qualifying young person you are responsible for, and for some types of housing costs.

•You do not have to have paid national insurance contributions to qualify.

•You can qualify for PC whether you are in or out of work.

•PC is administered and paid by the Pension Service, which is part of the DWP.

•If you disagree with a PC decision, you can apply for a revision or supersession (see Chapter 50), or appeal against it (see Chapter 51). You must apply for a mandatory reconsideration before you can appeal.