State pensioner couples can get an extra £66.60 a month from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), as Pension Credit has increased by 4.8% for the next financial year. The increase means that those eligible get a payment worth up to £238 a week if single, while those with a partner earn a joint rate of up to £363.25 per week, up from the previous earning of £346.60. This means that couples will receive a weekly increase of £16.65, totalling £66.60 in July.

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. If you already get Pension Credit, you will remain eligible for the benefit unless your circumstances change.

If your partner isn’t over State Pension age, you can’t usually make a new claim for Pension Credit. However, you can make a new claim if both of the following apply: you reached State Pension age before 15 May 2019 and you’ve been claiming Housing Benefit since before 15 May 2019.

You can also claim for Pension Credit as an individual if your partner can’t get it because of their immigration status. You should gather everything you can about your weekly income before applying. This could include money from a private pension and money you get from the State Pension.

It will also include most earnings from an employer or from being self-employed – your earnings will be worked out as an average if they go up and down over the year – and benefits such as JSA or ESA.

You’ll also need to consider what savings and investments you have. This could include property you own except the home you live in, shares and other investments and money held in bank or savings accounts.

Any savings or investments over £10,000 will affect the amount of Pension Credit you get. You’ll be treated as having £1 per week of income for every £500 above £10,000.

If your weekly income is below £238 then Guarantee Credit will top you up to that amount.

If you’re claiming as a couple and your joint weekly income is below £363.25 it will be topped up to that amount. If you’re claiming as a couple you’ll need the same information about your partner’s income.

Your income can be higher than £238 or £363.25 if you qualify for extra amounts such as the severe disability or carer’s addition. Your income can also be higher if you’re paying a mortgage.