On Wednesday 15 June it’s Pension Credit Day of Action. It’s been organised by the Department of Work and Pensions to encourage people to check their eligibility for Pension Credit. The Department of Works and Pension estimate there is up to £1.7bn in pension credit that hasn’t been claimed.
Eligible pensioners urged to apply for Pension Credit in new campaign. If you have family, friends or neighbours who claim pension, check the information out below. They may be entitled to more income. You might want to encourage them to seek advice and support!
The aim of Pension Credit Day of Action is to make people more aware of their potential eligibility for Pension Credit and to try and help them manage the cost of living rise.
What is Pension Credit?
It’s a means-tested benefit which can provide you with extra income if you are over State Pension Age and on a low income. It’s different to a State Pension.
There are two main parts:
- Guarantee Credit (this tops up your weekly income)
- Savings Credit (is a small top up for those who may have a higher income)
How do I know if I am entitled to it?
You must live in England, Scotland or Wales and have reached State Pension Age. When applying you need to ensure you include the details of your partner. The eligibility for you and your partner can be either both of you have reached State Pension Age and/or one of you are in receipt of Housing Benefit and over State Pension Age.
When a claim is being processed, considerations are made to household income. These can include:
- State Pension
- Private pensions
- Earnings from self-employment and employment and any other income such as benefits
There are certain benefits which are not included as income. For example:
- Attendance Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment
- Housing Benefits
- Council Tax Reduction
If you have any savings and investments under £10,000 then this will not affect your claim.
Check the Pension Credit Calculator to see if you are eligible. or contact us for further advice and support.
How can we make a claim?
You can make a claim up to 4 months before you reach State Pension Age.
The claim can be made over telephone on (0800 99 1234), online (Information you will need to apply online – Apply for Pension Credit (apply-for-pension-credit.service.gov.uk)) or by completing a form and posting to the Pension Service. Alternatively, you can contact us for help and support. You’ll need to provide:
- National Insurance Number
- Household income
- Bank account details
If I am already getting, or am about to get Pension Credit, will I be eligible for any other help?
Yes, you may be entitled to other help and support. These can include:
- Council Tax Reduction
- Housing Benefit
- Help with NHS costs, such as dental treatment, glasses, transport costs for hospital appointments and prescriptions
- Apply for a free TV license if you are over 75
For further help and support, please contact us on 023 92 794 340, advice.portsmouth@theyoutrust.org.uk or attend our Walk in Centre at 116 Kingston Crescent, Portsmouth PO2 8AL.
