The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) estimates that 850,000 pensioner households may be entitled to an average annual income boost of around £3,500, but do not claim it as they wrongly believe that because they have savings or own their own home they would not be eligible for Pension Credit.
The DWP’s ‘Week of Action’ aims to encourage people of State Pension age - or a friend or family member - to check if they might qualify for the ‘gateway’ benefit, which could also provide additional financial support for housing costs, heating bills and Council Tax. Pension Credit tops up a person's income to a minimum of £201.05 per week for single pensioners and to £306.85 for couples, or more if a person has a disability or caring responsibilities.
People can check their eligibility for Pension Credit using the online calculator on GOV.UK here or by calling the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234.
