Are you missing out on Pension Credit?

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age (currently aged 66 for men and women) and on a low income. Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension and comes in two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit.

You might get extra help if you’re a Carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person. Even if you have other income, savings, or your own home, you may still be eligible. Further information about Pension Credit is available in this leaflet produced by Age UK.

If you apply before 10 December 2023, you may be eligible for a £300 cost of living payment if your claim is successful.

If you get Pension Credit you can also get other help, such as:

• Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
• Cost of Living Payments
• Support for Mortgage Interest if you own the property you live in
• a Council Tax discount
• a free TV licence if you’re aged 75 or over
• help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments, if you get a certain type of Pension Credit
• help with your heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme
• a discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you’re moving house

How to Claim
You can start your application up to 4 months before you reach State Pension age. You can apply any time after you reach State Pension age but your application can only be backdated by 3 months. This means you can get up to 3 months of Pension Credit in your first payment if you were eligible during that time.

You’ll need to have the following details to hand:

• your National Insurance number
• your bank account details
• information about your income, savings and investments
• information about your pension (if you have one)
• details of any housing costs (such as service charges or ground rent) and your partner’s details (if you have a partner).

You can apply online or you can call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234. Age UK Birmingham can also help you, call 0121 437 0479.

Support for Unpaid Carers
If you provide care for someone, you may get an extra amount known as Carer Addition. This may be up to £42.75 a week. If you help a family member or friend who lives in Birmingham and they rely on your help due to their disability, serious illness, frailty or addiction, register with Birmingham Carers Hub to access a whole range of support to help you with your caring role. You can register online or by calling 0333 006 9711.