The UK has never paid our pensioners more, with our annual state pension bill at £100 million, up from £60 billion in 2010.
Around 1.5 million pensioners across the UK receive extra help from Pension Credit- a top up to their retirement incomes, which offers a springboard to a variety of other financial support, such as a free TV licence, housing support and more.
But there are still hundreds of thousands of pensioners who might be eligible for Pension Credit but are still not claiming what could be worth an average of £64 per week. That's why the Department for Work and Pensions is teaming up with Age UK and the BBC to raise awareness of Pensions Credit and help people understand what they are eligible for and how they can apply.
Pensioners whose income is below £177.10 (for individuals) or £270.30 (for couples) per week may be eligible to receive Pension Credit. If your income is higher, you might still be eligible if you have a disability, care for someone, or have particular housing costs.
To find out whether you are eligible for Pension Credit and to get an estimate of what you might receive, you can use the DWP's free online Pension Credit calculator. If the calculator shows that you might be entitled, or even if you aren't sure, then I strongly urge you to make a claim. This can be done online or by calling the DWP Pension Credit Freephone claim line on 0800 991234, or by post. Organisations such as Age UK or your local Citizens Advice Bureau can also help you to claim.
https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator
So, if you have a relative or are caring for someone, please help them make a claim. Even a small amount of Pension Credit can open the door to other support, including a free TV licence or help with council tax. The application process is straightforward and will ensure that you receive the support you are entitled to.