Nusrat Ghani, MP for Wealden, has welcomed a new campaign from the Government to boost the take-up of Pension Credit as part of wider support with the cost of living.
The Government is calling on pensioners across the country to check if they are entitled to Pension Credit as soon as possible to ensure they stand the best chance of qualifying for an extra £324 cost of living payment.
There are already 1755 claimants of Pension Credit in Wealden, but around a quarter of people who could claim the extra help do not currently do so.
Pension Credit is a top up for our most vulnerable pensioners that is worth an average of £3,500. As well as a cash top up to the State Pension, this can help pensioners access other support such as help with housing costs, council tax reduction schemes, heating bills and a free over-75s TV licence.
Checking eligibility and applying by 18 December will mean pensioners could also receive a £324 boost thanks to Pension Credit backdating rules.
Pension Credit can be claimed online or over the phone. Information is available on Gov.UK website www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
Nusrat Ghani said: “I welcome the news that 1755 pensioners in Wealden are already claiming Pension Credit, but there are many more who could be doing so. The Government has launched a major campaign to encourage eligible pensioners, as well as those who care for and support older people, to access the help they are entitled to. If those eligible apply by 18 December, they could receive a backdated Cost of Living Payment worth £324. This additional payment will make a huge difference to vulnerable people across Wealden, so I urge everyone to look into whether they or their loved ones are eligible.”
