Martin Lewis urges government to fix Pension Credit as pension triple-lock reforms loom

Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert, warned that a large number of low-earning pensioners are not receiving Pension Credit, a DWP benefit that can provide an average of over £65 a week - roughly £3,000 a year. He called the shortfall "shameful" and said it should be the first priority as the government moves to reform the state pension triple lock into a double lock from 2030. The pension reform, announced by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, will remove the earnings component of the triple lock while still linking increases to inflation or 2.5%.

Pension Credit, claimed by about 1.39 million people in August 2025, tops up weekly income to £238 for single claimants and £363.25 for couples, with extra amounts for severe disability or caring responsibilities. Data show up to 910,000 eligible households have not claimed, leaving around £1.7 billion unclaimed. Lewis urges the DWP to improve outreach and simplify claims so eligible seniors can receive the support.