Do you know someone over State Pension age?
Maybe a relative or a friend … or you?
The much-publicised, recent change to the distribution of the Winter Fuel Payment has sparked queries about who is eligible for Pension Credit and what associated support is available.
Anyone of State Pension age (currently 66 years or older) with a weekly income below £218.15 (or £332.95 if they live with a partner) is eligible for Pension Credit. This tops up pension income and aims to help with day-to-day living costs.
In recent years, the Winter Fuel Payment was allocated to everybody of State Pension age. From winter 2024, the £300 payment is only given to people receiving pension credit and other means-tested benefits. It is estimated that around 780,000 pensioners in England and Wales have lost their Winter Fuel Payment as they have not applied for the benefits they are entitled to. (Department for Work and Pensions (DWP))
‘It’s so important that pensioners don’t miss out on any financial support they are entitled to. This goes beyond the Winter Fuel Payment,’ says Emily Bridges of re:accounts Chartered Accountants in Stevenage. ‘Eligibility should be checked, especially as the cost of living increases.’
People who claim Pension Credit may also be able to get:
- The Winter Fuel Payment and other help with heating costs.
- Help with rent and Council Tax.
- A free TV Licence for those aged 75 or over.
- Help with the cost of NHS services, such as NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments.
To find out if you or a loved one is eligible for Pension Credit and associated support, please visit the government’s Pension Credit web page. There is also a Pension Service helpline: 0800 731 0469.
Please note that the re:accounts team is not involved with assessing eligibility or securing Pension Credit payments. We hope this information is helpful and would love you to share it with relatives and friends who may be impacted.
