The UK government has issued an urgent warning to pensioners to double check their eligibility for Pension Credit ahead of a new plan to increase uptake of the benefit. Pension Credit is worth over £3,500 on average but many eligible people are not claiming it, the Department for Work and Pensions said.
The DWP has announced an upcoming 'Invitation to Claim' invite, to be sent to potentially eligible households who receive Housing Benefit across 10 local authorities in the UK. This is in a bit to tackle the cost of living crisis faced by pensioners, who may be struggling with the increased cost of living.
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. But even a small claim can open doors to other benefits including help with housing costs, council tax, heating bills, as well as up to £600 in extra Cost of Living payments.
