2nd September 2024
In the UK, millions of people of State Pension Age are unknowingly missing out on a crucial benefit, Pension Credit, a means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age (currently 66 for men & women) who have a low income. It comes in 2 parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.
By claiming Pension Credit, you could become eligible for other benefits, such as help with health and housing costs. Pension Credit gives you access to other benefits too: you’ll be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, Cold Weather Payment, free TV licences for those aged 75 and over and you probably won’t have to pay Council Tax if you live alone.
Pension credit tops up weekly income to a minimum level of
-£218.15 if you are single
-£332.95 if you are a couple
Savings Credit is extra money if you’ve got some savings or if your income is higher than the basic State Pension. It’s available to people who reached the State Pension Age before 6th April, 2016. You could get up to
-£17.01 extra per week if you’re single
-£19.04 extra per week if you’re a couple
The government has emphasised that even if someone only qualifies for a small amount of Pension Credit, it’s still crucial to claim.
The reasons for not claiming vary. Some pensioners mistakenly believe their savings or small pensions make them ineligible, while others are simply unaware of Pension Credit’s existence. Others feel that the application process is too complicated or intrusive. However, the process has been simplified, and support is available to help people through it.
Around 50% Oxfordshire residents have not claimed what they are entitled to. The Department of Work and Pensions has launched a campaign along with Age UK and Citizens Advice to raise awareness, but local communities and family members can play a crucial role in ensuring eligible pensioners receive this
support. Checking eligibility is straightforward and can be done online, over the phone, or through local advisory services.
Checking Pension Credit could make a significant difference, not just in terms of immediate financial support, but by unlocking a range of other benefits that can alleviate the cost-of-living pressures many pensioners face. It’s vital that eligible individuals check their entitlement and apply without delay.
You can claim Pension Credit online at www.gov.uk/pension-credit if you already have a State Pension. Or call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 991 234, and they can complete the application for you over the phone (lines open Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Citizens Advice can guide you through your Pension Credit application. Visit our website at citizensadviceosav.org.uk, visit our local offices or call our Adviceline on 0808 278 7907 (Mon-Fri 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.)
