Why it’s so important to encourage friends and family over State Pension age to claim Pension Credit
This article gives an overview of Pension Credit (including why it is now even more important than ever that people claim it if they are eligible to do so, eligibility criteria, and what claimants receive). It also provides a link to further information (including how to claim Pension Credit).
Pension Credit – an overview
Pension Credit gives extra money to those over State Pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges. It may be payable even to people who have other income, savings, or own their own home.
It is a ‘gateway’ benefit which means that those who receive Pension Credit can also get other help such as:
- Housing Benefit
- Cost of Living Payments
- Support for Mortgage Interest
- A Council Tax discount
- A free TV licence (for over 75s)
- Help with heating costs.
Last month, the Chancellor stated that winter fuel payments will only be paid to those receiving Pension Credit.
Shockingly, it is estimated that around 850,000 older people are eligible for Pension Credit but are not claiming it despite it potentially being able to make a significant impact on their quality of life. There is no better time than now to help an elderly friend or relative who might be eligible for Pension Credit to claim it.
It is only paid to those living in England, Scotland and Wales who (together with spouse or partner, if applicable) have reached State Pension age. It increases weekly income for a single person to £218.15 and to £332.95 if they have a partner.
Next steps
For more information, including how to make a claim, see gov.uk/pension-credit (and follow the links to subsequent web pages).
All the best, Tim
(Tim Spriddell, Trustee Executive)