Scores of pensioners are believed to be missing out on a Government benefit that can lead to even more financial support. If you claim Pension Credit, it can open doors to further help schemes but many people may not realise this.
Pension Credit, delivered through the Department for Works and Pensions, is given to people over State Pension age and on a low income. It is separate from your State Pension and you can get it even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.
This benefit tops up your weekly income to £227.10 if you're single or your joint weekly income to £346.60 if you have a partner. You may get extra amounts if you have other responsibilities and costs. However, according to research, around 761,000 people could be missing out on this income boost, as reported by ChronicleLive.
Not only are older people losing out on Pension Credit payments, they are also missing out on the extra perks the benefit brings. Here we have listed the other help you can get if you claim Pension Credit.
If you get Pension Credit you can also get other help, such as:
Housing Benefit can help you pay your rent if you're unemployed, on a low income or claiming benefits. It's being replaced by Universal Credit.
You can only make a new claim for Housing Benefit if either of the following apply - you have reached State Pension age or you're in supported, sheltered or temporary housing. If you've reached State Pension age and you're single, you can make a new claim for Housing Benefit.
If you're over State Pension age and live with your partner, you can make a new claim for Housing Benefit if any of the following apply:
If you're 75 or over and you get Pension Credit, you can get a free TV licence. If you're blind or in residential care, you can get a discounted TV licence. You can apply for a free licence online here.
The Warm Home Discount Scheme is a one-off £150 discount off your electricity bill. If you're eligible, your electricity supplier will apply the discount to your bill. The money is not paid to you directly.
If you live in England and Wales, you qualify if you get the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. If you do not get the Guarantee Credit element, you may still be eligible if you're on a low income. Here are more details.
Full details of Pension Credit can be found here. The Government website explains who is eligible and how much money you could receive.