The Government recently launched a new drive with Age UK to encourage more people to check their Pension Credit eligibility
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging thousands of older Brits to check if they should be claiming Pension Credit.
The latest figures from the DWP show 910,000 families are missing out on claiming Pension Credit, despite being eligible. It is estimated that Pension Credit is worth on average £4,300 a year.
Pension Credit tops your weekly income and also unlocks other financial help, such as a free TV licence if you’re over the age of 75.
The main part of Pension Credit is called Guarantee Credit and this boosts your weekly income to £227.10 if you’re single, or to £346.60 if you’re in a couple.
Your income normally needs to be below these amounts to be eligible, but you might still be able to claim if you have a higher income and you have a severe disability, you’re a carer, or you have to housing costs.
You can be entitled to extra Pension Credit amounts if you’re a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person. You can apply for Pension Credit u p to four months before you reach state pension age.
The Government recently launched a new drive with Age UK to encourage more people to check their Pension Credit eligibility, which consists of writing letters to 2,000 pensioners across England.
These pensioners were identified as being the most likely to be eligible for Pension Credit but not currently claiming the benefit.
You can apply for Pension Credit online on the GOV.UK website, by calling 0800 99 1234, or by printing out and filling in a paper application form.
Pension Credit is available if you are over the state pension age, and you live in England, Scotland or Wales. The state pension age is currently 66 for men and women.
Minister for Pensions Torsten Bell said: “We’re committed to supporting harder-up pensioners however we can. Pension Credit is a simple way to give those who need it the most some extra support with bills or a free TV licence.
“I’d urge anyone who thinks they, or anyone they know, might be able to claim Pension Credit, to take a few minutes out of their day to check and apply. This country’s pensioners deserve every penny they are entitled to.”
Pension Credit freebies and help
- Free TV licence for over-75s worth £174.50
- Free dental treatment
- Voucher for glasses or contact lenses
- Council Tax reduction
- Warm Home Discount worth £150
- Cold Weather Payments worth £25 each
- Housing Benefit
- Free home insulation
- Free boiler grants
