The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued another warning as people miss out on cash.
The government department is responsible for distributing benefits and pensions, as well as the Cost of Living payments. On Monday, a tweet from the DWP's official account urged people to check if they are eligible for financial support worth thousands of pounds each year.
It said: "You could be missing out on an average of £3,500 a year from #PensionCredit. Pension Credit can help with daily living costs like council tax, housing costs [and] heating bills."
READ MORE: DWP giving millions of people up to £451 in cost of living boost
Pension Credit is a tax-free payment for those who have reached State Pension age and live in the UK. The payment tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level, and as of April 2023, this is now £201.05 for single pensioners, or £306.85 for couples.
"Income" includes:
- State Pension
- other pensions
- earnings from employment and self-employment
- most social security benefits, for example Carer’s Allowance
You may still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have not paid National Insurance contributions, have some savings or a small pension, live with your grown-up family, and/or own your own home.
DWP has previously said there are common misconceptions that may be putting people off applying for Pension Credit. Gov.uk clarifies that people of State Pension age may be entitled to Pension Credit even though they may have modest savings, or a retirement income or own their own home.
It added: "An award of Pension Credit can provide access to a range of other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax, heating bills and for those aged 75 or over, a free TV licence".
To find out more about Pension Credit eligibility, or to apply, click here or call 0800 991 234.
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