The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to send a vital letter to every pensioner this year – and it could mean they get thousands of pounds more in their pocket
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is preparing to dispatch a crucial letter that could result in an income boost of over £4,000 this year for some recipients. The DWP has unveiled fresh data indicating that 12.9 million individuals are currently claiming the State Pension.
Of these, 4.1 million are on the New State Pension (post-April 2016), while 8.8 million are receiving the Basic (or Old) State Pension (pre-April 2016). Both the New and Basic State Pensions are set to rise by 4.1% in April under the earnings growth measure of the Triple Lock.
However, additional elements, along with working age and disability benefits, will increase by 1.7% according to the September Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate. The DWP will mail a letter to every pensioner before the payments increase on April 7, typically arriving in March reports the Daily Record.
It’s essential that recipients read this letter to confirm the correct amount they will receive, as reported by the Daily Record. An important leaflet included with the letter could potentially augment annual income by an average of £4,200.
This leaflet provides information about claiming Pension Credit, a means-tested benefit, and encourages pensioners to check their entitlement. It’s crucial for all older individuals – whether single, married or cohabiting – to ensure they’re claiming all the additional financial support they’re entitled to in 2025 to help supplement their income and counteract the ongoing cost of living crisis.
The eligibility rules for the annual Winter Fuel Payment have been changed, meaning that only pensioners receiving certain benefits, such as Pension Credit, will be eligible for the 2024/25 payment. Pension Credit is the most under-claimed benefit, aimed at providing extra financial support for older people on low incomes – both singles and couples.
Nearly 1.4 million older people across Great Britain, including over 125,000 residing in Scotland, are currently receiving this means-tested benefit. Some older people mistakenly believe that having savings or owning their home makes them ineligible for this means-tested benefit, which can also provide help with housing costs, heating bills and Council Tax.
An award of just £1 per week can unlock additional support.
