Pension Credit and related benefits go unclaimed as thousands face losing winter fuel payments
The government has scrapped Winter Fuel Payments for older people not claiming Pension Credit, (more here). This comes as thousands of pensioners in the UK struggle to cover bills even though there are billions available in support each year.
According to the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) 850,000 households which could be entitled to Pension Credit do not claim it. That’s an extra £3,500 a year that people missing out on.
Pension Credit is also a gateway to other benefits supporting people in older age such as Housing Benefit, Attendance Allowance, Council Tax… and now, winter fuel payments. When these benefits go unclaimed, people miss out on up £8,000 a year.
Pension Credit
Pension Credit is available to those of us on low income that have reached State Pension age (currently 66 years). It is separate from our State Pension and Universal Credit (UC).
If we were claiming UC but reach state pension age, our UC will stop and we must apply for Pension Credit.
Pension Credit comes in two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit. The Guarantee Credit tops up our weekly income to a ‘guaranteed minimum level’ of over £200 for single people and over £330 for couples. For the latest amounts, check out this government information.
Anyone whose income is higher than these levels cannot claim Guarantee Credit unless they are a carer, have a severe disability, have certain housing costs, or are responsible for a child or young person.
Many people who think they are not eligible for Pension Credit, because they have savings or own a home, may be eligible for the Savings Credit. Our incomes could be topped up by almost £20 per week. It is available to people who have reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016.
We can claim both parts of our Pension Credit on GOV.UK or call the claim line on 0800 99 1234 (lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm).
Disability Benefits
Claiming Pension Credit can also open the door to other benefits such as Attendance Allowance (or Carers Allowance) worth thousands each year. No matter our income, we can claim the benefit if we need help with personal care or supervision because of an illness or disability. (See how much can be claimed here.)
To fill out the form click here or call the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122.
We may also be eligible for a Severe Disability Premium, which could amount to £5,644.60 yearly.
Housing Benefit
Housing Benefit is money that helps cover rent available for those of us that are State Pension age or over. The amount of money depends on our income, savings, and life situation such as who we live with, how many rooms in our home, and the other benefits we claim.
Many on Pension Credit are eligible for Housing Credit and may get their rent paid in full. Find out how to claim here. We can also access Council Tax support worth hundreds.
Other Pension Perks
We can slash our health costs with free NHS dental care, help with costs of glasses, and transport to and from hospitals. Free prescriptions are also available to anyone 60 or over.
Transport costs can also be cut with a Senior Railcard. If we are 60 years or older, we can whip around Britain for a third of the price! And not to mention free (during off-peak) bus passes once we reach State Pension age.
And to top everything off, once we hit 75, we get to enjoy our favourite shows for free with the Pension Credit TV licence perk!
Image: Ivanko80 / Shutterstock
