Thousands in Bury missing out on unclaimed Pension Credit

Around two and a half thousand older residents across the borough are missing out on money they are entitled to because they haven’t claimed Pension Credit.

Some £5.5 million is sitting unclaimed in Bury each year with an estimated 2362 of those that are eligible, aged 66 and over, not claiming.

It’s estimated that that costs a further £14 million to the health and social care system across the borough of Bury.

Pension Credit tops up weekly income to a guaranteed minimum level of £201.05 a week for single pensioners or £306.85 for couples.

If you are over State Pension Age (66), you may be eligible to claim Pension Credit if your weekly income is below £201.05 or, if you have a partner who lives with you, £306.85. even if you own your home or have savings.

Claiming Pension Credit also can mean getting further benefits:

• additional Cost of Living Payments
• help with heating costs
• help with rent and Council Tax
• a free TV licence for those aged 75 or over
• help with the cost of NHS services, such as NHS
• dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for
• hospital appointments
• have not paid National Insurance contributions
• have some savings or a small pension
• live with their grown-up family
• own their own home
• are working

Someone may still get Pension Credit even if they:

Use the Pension Credit calculator to find out how much Pension Credit someone could get – without giving any personal details.

“Don’t’ miss out,” said Councillor Richard Gold, Bury Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and Communities.

“The rising cost of living is affecting our vulnerable residents and our older people are among those who are struggling.

“If you or you know of a family member or someone you support who is struggling it is worth checking if you or they qualify.

“You might have thought that you can’t because you own your own home or have savings or are working it is worth checking because it guarantees that you should be getting at least £201.05 per week.

“A change in circumstances, for example, bereavement, a change in health or disability can make someone newly eligible for Pension Credit. So even if they’ve applied before and did not get it, it may be worth another look.

“Someone may feel they are able to manage or don’t want to be seen to be making a claim, which is why it’s important you talk to any family members who may qualify.

“Receiving that benefit can make all the difference during these difficult times.”

Further information including an easy-to-use calculator are available at: https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit