We want to raise awareness of Pension Credit and encourage residents of pension age, to apply for a Pension Credit top up, to maximise income which will help to improve their financial wellbeing. We want to break down some of the barriers that may stop people from applying for Pension Credit and ensure residents know where to go for further help and support around Pension Credit.
A quick guide to Pension Credit facts
- Around a third of those eligible for Pension Credit are not claiming it and could be missing out on extra money each week.
- The average weekly amount of Pension Credit is over £65.
- A change in circumstances can make someone newly eligible for Pension Credit (for example, bereavement, a change in health or disability). So even if you have applied before and did not get it, it may be worth another look.
- Qualifying for Pension Credit can mean help with other things like reduction in the amount of Council Tax they need to pay.
Specific Information about payments and amounts…
If people have reached State Pension age, it means they’ll get topped up to a minimum income of:
- £182.60 a week if they are single
- £278.70 a week if they are a couple
If they’re over 65 and reached their State Pension Age before 6 April 2016, they could still qualify for Pension Credit if their weekly income is below:
- £218.80 if they are single
- £319.20 if they are a couple
Plus, getting Pension Credit 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.
People do not have to pay tax on any Pension Credit payments they may get, and Pension Credit can be backdated for a maximum period of 3 months.
Pensioners can get Pension Credit even if they have savings. The first £10,000 of savings is ignored – so if someone has been previously turned down because of the amount of their savings, it’s worth another check.
Myth Busting…
- Homeowners can get Pension Credit too. In fact, almost half of the people who get Pension Credit own their own home.
- People can claim as soon as they reach the qualifying age, which is now State Pension age.
- Even if you’re not entitled to a State Pension, you may be entitled to Pension Credit.
- If you have been turned down for Pension Credit before, it is worth applying again. Personal circumstances could have changed and their income or capital may have changed as a result.
- You can claim with one simple free phone call. If you wish, you can fill out a paper claim form.
How To Apply…
The quickest way for Ageing Well residents and their carers to check eligibility is by using the Pension Credit calculator or ringing the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 991234 (open 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday).Â
A claim can be made by using the Pension Credit online service if:
- State Pension has already been claimed; and
- there are no children or young people included in the claim
Pension Credit can also be claimed by phone, on 0800 169 0133 or 0800 99 1234, from Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm, except public holidays
A home visit can be arranged if needed.
If people would prefer, a friend or family member can call on their behalf.
If Sunderland residents need further assistance around applying for Pension Credit, they can access free support in their local area by clicking visiting… www.sunderland.gov.uk/get-support
Useful Links and Contacts…
- The Pension Credit claimant guide contains basic information about Pension Credit and how to claim.
- You can contact The Pension Service.
- Use the Pension Credit calculator to find out how much Pension Credit someone could get – without giving any personal details.
- Use the State Pension age calculator to find someone’s Pension Credit qualifying age.
- Read information about benefits for carers and people with disabilities.
- Age UK supports people over 50 providing care, information; you can call them on 0800 169 6565
- Carers UK offer a wider range of information and sources of help; you can call them on 0808 808 7777
- Citizens Advice has a national network of free advice centres. Depending on available resources, they may offer benefit checks and help filling in forms. You can contact Sunderland Citizens Advice on 0808 278 7950 or the South Tyneside Citizens Advice on 0191 455 7958 or 0844 499 4715
