The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging people born in the 1950s to check if they qualify for Pension Credit, which could provide an annual boost of around £4,200 on average. Despite this vital benefit acting as a safety net, an estimated 760,000 older people are still not claiming Pension Credit, even though they are entitled. To qualify for Pension Credit, you must have reached the qualifying age of 66 years old.
Your weekly income is assessed, including pensions, earnings, and most social security benefits. For single individuals, if your income is below £182.60 per week, you may be eligible. For couples, if your combined income is below £278.70 per week, you may qualify.
Even if your income exceeds these amounts, you might still be eligible for Savings Credit or other additions, especially if you have a disability, are a carer, or face housing costs. Receiving Pension Credit can also unlock several other financial aids, such as a free TV licence if you’re over 75, assistance with rent payments, Council Tax Reduction, Cold Weather Payments, and the Warm Home Discount Scheme. Applying for Pension Credit can be done online, by phone, or by post.
When applying, ensure you have your National Insurance number, information about your income, savings, and investments, and bank account details.
DWP urges 1950s-born women’s benefits
To qualify for certain benefits, such as the Winter Fuel Payment for this year, ensure you apply by December 21.
Claims can be backdated by up to three months, so even if you’ve been eligible for a while, it’s worth applying now. Spencer Churchill Claims Advice is warning that many pensioners could be missing out on this financial help. Pension Credit is a hugely important benefit for those struggling to make ends meet, particularly women born in the 1950s, many of whom faced financial hardship due to unexpected increases in their State Pension age,” said a spokesman.
The DWP is encouraging WASPI women who have been denied compensation of up to £2,950 for changes to their age to see if they could get Pension Credit to help with their finances. WASPI – Women Against State Pension Inequality – had been set up to fight for those affected to be recompensed and is furious with the decision by Labour not to give any cash payout to 3.8 million women born between April 6, 1950, and April 5, 1960, who found their pension age had gone up. Despite government campaigns, Pension Credit remains one of the most underclaimed benefits.
Over the coming weeks, the government will send out millions of leaflets alongside State Pension uprating letters to encourage eligible pensioners to apply. Don’t miss out on the financial support designed to make your retirement years more comfortable. Check your eligibility for Pension Credit today.
Image Credits: Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash
