Check eligibility for Pension Credit to avoid missing out on Winter Fuel Payment
Are you one of the 800,000 people missing out on Pension Credit?
This week marks Pension Credit Week of Action, and we are encouraging everyone over state pension age to check whether they are eligible for the support.
If you’re not over pension age yourself, you could help a family member, neighbour or friend by encouraging them to check whether they could be claiming.
It is more important than ever that people don’t miss out, as receiving Pension Credit will also mean you get the Winter Fuel Payment.
From this year, Winter Fuel Payments of up to £300 will only be made to pensioners receiving Pension Credit, or a few other means-tested benefits.
But time is running out to be eligible for this year’s payment. To get it, you must be claiming Pension Credit, or another qualifying benefit, in the week of September 16th to 22nd.
Whether you’re eligible depends on a number of factors, including your age, whether you have a partner, your weekly income and whether you have any savings.
The benefit tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £218.15 if you're single and £332.95 if you're a couple. The DWP says it’s worth over £3,900 a year on average.
If your income is already over this amount (for example if you are still working or have a private pension) there is still no harm in checking your eligibility. That’s because the threshold can be higher in certain circumstances, including if you claim disability benefits or have caring responsibilities.
Even if you would only be entitled to a small amount, it’s worth putting in a claim to unlock the Winter Fuel Payment and other support, such as help with housing costs and council tax. It also entitles you to the warm home discount, which gives you a further £150 off your energy bills.
To check your eligibility, click here or call the pension credit helpline on 0800 99 1234.
There are a number of charities than can offer support, including Citizens Advice and Age UK.
Wrekin Housing Group customers can also contact our Money Matters team.
2nd September 2024