Martin Lewis told GMB viewers on Wednesday that it is “an absolute tragedy” that one million people of State Pension age across the UK, eligible for a benefit worth more than £3,500 each year are not claiming it. The financial guru urged people over 66 and friends or family members to check if they, or someone they know, is missing out and should make a claim for Pension Credit.
Martin also explained the urgent need to make a claim before May 19, as new applications for Pension Credit - that later turn out to be successful - can be backdated by up to three months, which means they would qualify for the £301 cost of living payment.
The founder of MoneySavingExpert.com urged single pensioners with a total weekly income of under £220 and couples with a total weekly income of less than £320 to call the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234 to see if they are eligible. The online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK here can also give an indication of whether someone should make a claim.
