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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Business
Kate Lally

DWP urging people to claim thousands of pounds in extra cash

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) wants people to check if they are eligible for thousands of pounds in extra cash each year.

Taking to Twitter on Monday, the government department urged people to check their entitlement for Pension Credit. It added that those who are over State Pension age and on a low income could be missing out.

It comes after Age UK recently estimated that around a third (34%) of pensioners eligible to claim Pension Credit are still missing out on the cash.

READ MORE: Cost of Living payment update as more people to soon get £301

Pension Credit is a tax-free payment for those who have reached State Pension age and live in the UK. The payment tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level, and as of April 2023, this is now £201.05 for single pensioners, or £306.85 for couples.

"Income" includes:

  • State Pension
  • other pensions
  • earnings from employment and self-employment
  • most social security benefits, for example Carer’s Allowance

People may still be eligible for Pension Credit if they have not paid National Insurance contributions, have some savings or a small pension, live with their grown-up family, and/or own their own home.

DWP has previously said there are common misconceptions that may be putting people off applying for Pension Credit. Gov.uk clarifies that people of State Pension age may be entitled to Pension Credit even though they may have modest savings, or a retirement income or own their own home.

It adds: "An award of Pension Credit can provide access to a range of other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax, heating bills and for those aged 75 or over, a free TV licence".

To find out more about Pension Credit eligibility, or to apply, click here or call 0800 991 234.

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