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.
New claims for the means-tested benefit made before May 19, which are later successful, will also qualify for the £301 cost of living payment, along with future support worth £599. UK Government payments of £300 and £299 are due in the autumn and spring 2024, respectively.
The DWP also recently shared new ways 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. This includes two new explainer-style YouTube videos, one aimed at the individual considering making a claim and one for family members.
