Nearly one million pensioners across the country are eligible for extra housing support but have not yet made a claim.
According to the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP), Pension Credit can help some people over the State Pension age pay for living costs such as rent. It's an extremely vital benefit if you're a pensioner and are struggling to make ends meet in the face of a worsening cost of living crisis.
However, not all pensioners will be eligible for the payment and your living situation may determine whether you receive the cash boost or not. Here's a breakdown of who can claim Pension Credit and how much you could receive...
Read more: Millions better off as DWP benefits including PIP, Universal Credit and pensions rise
Who is eligible for Pension Credit?
In order to be considered for Pension Credit, you must first be over the State Pension age. It is important to note that the 'default retirement age' of 65 no longer exists and cannot be used as a qualifier - if you are unsure of whether you have reached the State Pension age or not, you can check the government website here.
You must also be determined by the DWP to be on a low income. This is calculated differently depending on whether you are single or living with your partner.
If you live with your partner then you must include their details on your Pension Credit application because their weekly income will be calculated jointly with yours. A variety of factors will be included in your income including your state pension, any other pensions, earnings from employment and self-employment, and most social security benefits such as Carer's Allowance.
How much money can I get from Pension Credit?
Pension Credit acts more as a top-up to your weekly income, rather than its own cash boost. Because of this, you will be given a payment that helps to boost your weekly income to a set amount which differs depending on whether you are living with your partner or not.
The following Pension Credit top ups are provided across the board:
- For a single income: a top-up bringing your income to £201.05 a week
- For a joint income: a top-up bringing your income to £306.85 per week
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