Pension Credit - claim it or lose it
18/08/2008
Pensioners have just weeks left to apply for backdated pension credit payments spanning a year. If they miss the October 6th deadline, their claims can only go back three months, NOT the full twelve months - because the Pension Service have changed the rules.
Many older people mistakenly think that owning their home or having savings automatically rules them out. Wrong. Nearly half of those already receiving pension credit own their home and around three quarters have some savings.
Do not be shy about coming forward - you have paid your taxes and, if you qualify, you are entitled to the money. Around 88% of claims for pension credit are successful. Pensioners should be better looked after, and pension credit is a step in the right direction.
Pension credit guarantees single pensioners an income of £124.05 per week and couples an income of £189.35.
To claim or to get more information call the free pension credit advice hotline on 0800 99 1234, or visit the website below.
J Mendes, London