Martin Lewis has urged older Brits on a low income to check if they can claim Pension Credit ahead of a Department for Work and Pension campaign.
The DWP "Pension Credit Week of Action" runs from today, Monday, June 12 until Friday, June 16, as part of its ongoing efforts to encourage more older people to claim.
The campaign will also include an "Invitation to Claim" initiative that will see eligible households receiving Housing Benefits across 10 areas in Britain sent letters encouraging them to apply.
Pension Credit is a state top-up available to people who have reached state pension age and are on a low income.
If you’re eligible, this benefit tops up your income to £201.05 per week for single people and to £306.85 for couples - the DWP says those claiming are £3,500 a year better off on average.
The letters will be sent out across these areas:
- Eastbourne
- Teignbridge
- Pendle
- Charnwood
- Vale of White Horse
- Redcar and Cleveland
- Craven
- Harrow
- Powys
- West Lothian
The DWP says this is a “representative sample” of urban, rural, regional and national areas.
The Money Saving Expert called it a “tragedy” that up to one million people of state pension age are missing out on financial support they are entitled to through Pension Credit.
He particularly noted that claiming would open doors for wider support including cost of living payments, council tax reductions and help with housing or heating bills - even if they are only awarded a few pence.
Martin said: “It’s a tragedy that up to a million low income pensioners who’ve paid into the system for years are missing out on what can be a crucial financial top up.
“Even those only due thruppence from it should still claim as Pension Credit is the key gateway benefit that opens the door to many other entitlements - including the remaining £600 cost of living support, Council Tax reductions, free TV licences for the over-75s, dental and optical support and more.
“Any single pensioner earning under roughly £220 a week, or pension couple earning under £320 should check online or call the Pension Credit helpline just in case you may be due.”
The DWP's Pension Credit Week of Action sees the Government department join forces with charities, broadcasters and a whole range of partners to raise awareness of the benefit.
Commenting on the campaign, Minister for Pensions Laura Trott MBE, said: “We recognise the challenges some pensioners will be facing with the cost of living which is why, alongside driving down inflation, promoting Pension Credit is a priority.
“During the Week of Action, we will be out and about spreading the word - and you can help too.
"Speak to your older loved ones about Pension Credit and get them to check if they could be eligible for this vital extra support, worth an average of £3,500 per year.”
