Are you missing out?
The recent government announcement that over 75s will only be entitled to a free television licence if they are in receipt of Pension Credit has raised awareness of this under claimed benefit. Government statistics published in February showed that only 6 out of 10 of those entitled to Pension Credit claimed it.
Pension credit is made up of 2 parts, and is designed to help pensioners on low incomes. You can still be eligible if you own your own home.
Guarantee Credit is intended to top up the weekly income of a single person in receipt of State Retirement Pension, whose income is below £173.75, or a couple who have both reached state pension age, and whose joint income is below £265.20. There are slightly different rules for couples where one is below state retirement age.
Savings Credit is an extra payment for people who have additional pensions or savings. To be entitled to Savings Credit the claimant must have reached State Retirement Pension age before 6th April 2016.
All Pension Credit claims are means-tested, however income from Attendance Allowance and Personal Independence Payments are disregarded and may allow an increase in Pension Credit payment.
If you get Guarantee Credit you may also qualify for other benefits such as Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and Cold Weather Payments. You will also get help with the costs of NHS services eg free NHS dental treatment, and you can claim help towards the cost of glasses and travel to hospital.
You will also not have to pay for your TV Licence if you are aged 75 or over.
If you would like any more information and help with this or any other matters, please contact us on our Confidential Freephone: 0808 800 0511 Mon to Fri 10 am to 4 pm.
You can also check your entitlement by contacting The Pension Credit Claim line: freephone 0800 99 1234 – a friend or relative can also call for you.
If you know anyone who might need our help, and particularly those who do not have access to the internet, please pass on our details – we are just a phone call away.
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