State pensioners in the UK have a valuable opportunity this month to boost their income with 11 different freebies and discounts, potentially worth up to £9,077.40 in total.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging pensioners to check their eligibility and apply for support they might be missing out on, particularly regarding Pension Credit, which offers vital financial aid for low-income retirees.
According to Lancs Live, many pensioners remain unaware of the financial help available, making it essential to review available benefits and act quickly.
Pension Credit : A Lifeline for Low-Income Retirees
Pension Credit is described as a ‘lifeline’ for retirees with limited income, providing up to £4,300 annually. On average, it takes only 16 minutes to apply for this benefit, which can also unlock a range of other financial advantages.
If eligible, pensioners can receive extra support for housing costs, council tax, and the Winter Fuel Payment. The DWP encourages pensioners to apply for Pension Credit since it can be backdated up to three months, ensuring they don’t miss out on valuable financial support.
As Sarah Pennells, a consumer finance expert at Royal London, commented:
There was a lot of focus on December’s deadline to claim Pension Credit in order to qualify for the Winter Fuel Payment for 2024, but people can apply for Pension Credit any time, and it could be worth over £4,000 a year.
She continued :
Our research shows that many people are missing out because they haven’t checked to see if they qualify. Three in ten people over State Pension age who were on a low income hadn’t checked to see if they were entitled to Pension Credit, while one in ten pensioners who had been told they qualified for Pension Credit have yet to apply.
Housing and Council Tax Discounts
Pensioners claiming Pension Credit may also be eligible for discounts on housing benefits and council tax. While the amount varies based on location, those eligible can expect savings of up to £1,000 for housing benefits and discounts of up to £1,600 on council tax. Some councils even offer 100% reductions for those with very low incomes.
Beyond Pension Credit, pensioners can access a variety of other benefits. Free NHS prescriptions, typically costing £9.90 per item, are available for those claiming Pension Credit.
Additionally, pensioners may qualify for free eye care, which includes vouchers for glasses or contact lenses, valued at up to £215, and free NHS dental treatment worth up to £1,000 annually.
With Pension Credit, pensioners can receive assistance with their heating bills through the Warm Home Discount scheme, which reduces electricity bills by £150. Furthermore, those aged 75 and over can benefit from a free TV licence worth £169.50.
Other Valuable Discounts and Payments
Additional discounts include a £24 reduction on the Royal Mail redirection service if moving house, and a £25 Cold Weather Payment if the temperature falls below 0°C for seven consecutive days. The latter is automatically applied to pensioners already receiving eligible benefits such as Pension Credit.
Lastly, Attendance Allowance provides up to £434 per month for those with severe disabilities who require help with daily tasks. This assistance can be vital for pensioners who need additional care and support in their everyday lives.
The DWP also notes that Pension Credit applications can be made up to four months before reaching the state pension age of 66, and can be backdated for three months. So, the sooner you apply, the sooner you can start receiving these vital payments.
