DWP says hundreds of thousands of households are missing out
The latest figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show almost a million UK households are missing out on around £4,300 a year, or just over £80 per week, in extra support they may not realise they’re entitled to. More than 900,000 families who are eligible have not yet made claims, leaving a huge £2.5bn pot untapped.
Now, the DWP is ramping up efforts to boost uptake of Pension Credit among those beyond State Pension age. The benefit offers additional support for single individuals on the New State Pension with an income of less than £227.10 weekly, or £346.60 for couples.
There are currently around 1.4m people across the UK who receive Pension Credit. There are some common myths around the benefit which DWP believes may put people off applying – these include people not thinking they are eligible because they:
- have savings
- own their own home
- may be working
- may be getting a small occupational pension
- may have been turned down in the past
Other factors could include:
- not wanting to be seen as needing to claim
- feeling able to manage as they are
- thinking it’s not worth applying – as the amount they get will be very small
- not recognising themselves as a Pension Credit claimant
- having not got around to it
- thinking it’s a complex and confusing subject
- already getting other help and do not want to mess up the benefits they are getting
How to check if I am eligible for Pension Credit
Pensioners, or their friends and family, can quickly eligibility and get an estimate of potential benefits using the GOV.UK Pension Credit calculator. Alternatively, pensioners can ring the Pension Credit helpline directly to lodge a claim on 0800 99 1234 – lines are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Expert guidance and advice is also at hand from Age UK, Independent Age, Income Max and Citizens Advice.
