Experts urge older Britons to check DWP benefits for potential £8,300 boost
Are you a retiree in the UK looking to boost your income? If so, you may be missing out on valuable benefits that could significantly increase your financial stability. Recent reports have shown that a staggering 40 percent of eligible individuals are not claiming Pension Credit, a benefit that could provide you with an extra £8,300 per year.
Pension Credit is a government benefit designed to top up the weekly income of retirees, providing access to a range of financial perks and support services. By claiming Pension Credit, you could receive an average top-up of £4,000 per year, as well as access to additional benefits such as free TV licences for over-75s, council tax reductions, and vouchers for glasses or contact lenses.
Joanna Elson, chief executive of Independent Age, emphasizes the importance of claiming Pension Credit, stating that even a small increase in income is worth pursuing for the additional entitlements it provides. With the UK government’s proposed changes to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment, it’s more crucial than ever to ensure you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to.
To find out if you are eligible for Pension Credit, you can contact Independent Age’s free helpline or visit the gov.uk website for more information. Remember, you do not need to be claiming your state pension to qualify for Pension Credit, so it’s worth checking your eligibility even if you are not yet receiving your pension.
Jon Greer, head of retirement policy at Quilter, stresses the importance of checking your eligibility for Pension Credit, noting that many pensioners are missing out on valuable benefits due to a lack of awareness or assumptions about their eligibility. By taking the time to investigate your entitlements, you could significantly boost your retirement income and access essential support services.
Don’t miss out on the financial assistance you deserve. Check if you are eligible for Pension Credit today and start maximizing your income in retirement. Follow us on Twitter at @ExpressMoney_ for the latest personal finance news and updates.