The number of new applications represents a small fraction of the 880,000 pensioners estimated to have been eligible for the benefit but who had not put in a claim.
Those who apply before 21 December will receive backdated payments of both pension credit and the winter fuel allowance, and the DWP has deployed 500 extra staff to handle claims for the benefit.
Pensions minister Emma Reynolds said: “We’re pleased to see more pensioners are now receiving pension credit and our staff are processing claims as quickly as possible.
“With December 21 approaching, my message is clear: check if you are eligible for pension credit and if you are then apply, as it unlocks a range of benefits including the winter fuel payment.”
However, campaigners and opposition parties have been critical of delays.
The government’s own data suggests a 10-week typical wait between an application being submitted and a final decision.
Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesperson Daisy Cooper said the figures were a “damning indictment of the government’s failure to protect pensioners this winter”.
“Millions of vulnerable pensioners are still set to lose their winter fuel payment just as the cold weather bites,” she said.
The changed winter fuel payment policy remains under continued scrutiny. The Unite union is pushing ahead with legal action aimed at overturning it.
In Scotland, ministers announced extra measures to help those set to miss out.
