Millions of households could be missing out on extra financial help as the cost of living crisis continues.
The Department for Work and Pensions recently revealed that although 1.4 million older people in Britain receive Pension Credit, many are still not claiming this extra financial help, with an estimated £1.7bn currently left unclaimed. If you have reached State Pension Age and are on a low income you could be eligible.
Knowsley Council is urging residents to check if they are eligible for additional financial support as many as "missing out".
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Cllr Jayne Aston, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Resources, said: "With the cost of living crisis impacting all Knowsley residents, it is really important that you know what you are entitled to. There are many households across Knowsley missing out on Pension Credit which could be used to help pay bills each month.
"If you, or a someone you know, has reached state pension age you should apply. Savings, pensions and home ownership don’t discount you if you are on a low income. Even if you’ve applied unsuccessfully in the past, you can reapply if your income has gone down."
Pension Credit can be backdated for three months meaning if you apply now, it will cover the eligibility period for the Government's £650 Cost of Living Payment. The DWP has confirmed that you must be awarded your Pension Credit before the August 25 to be eligible for the payment so residents are urged to apply as soon as possible.
Pension Credit tops your income up to a minimum of £182.60 a week if you are single and £278.70 a week if you are a couple. People over 65 who reached State Pension Age before 6 April 2016, could qualify for Pension Credit if their weekly income is below £218.80 if they are single or £319.20 if they are a couple.
You can use a free online calculator to see if you are eligible or apply, call the free Pension Credit Claim Line on 0800 99 1234 or visit www.gov.uk/pension-credit.
The average Pension Credit payment is over £65 per week and can provide a passport to help with things like rent, council tax, Cold Weather Payments and a free TV licence for people aged 75 and over. Homeowners can get Pension Credit too as well as those with savings.
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