REDCAR and Cleveland Borough Council are encouraging pensioner residents to check their eligibility and apply for Pension Credit.
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension.
You might get extra help if you’re a carer, severely disabled or responsible for a child or young person. You can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.
The Council’s Welfare Rights service are contacting low-income pension aged households who have been identified as entitled to Pension Credit and helping to make the claim, as well as checking to make sure they are receiving all other financial assistance that they are entitled to.
Cllr Christopher Massey, Cabinet Member for Resources, said:
“The Council is supporting pensioners on low incomes in Redcar and Cleveland to get their Pension Credit applications signed, sealed and over the line by 21st December.”
“We want every pensioner in the area to receive all the help they can and with time ticking down to deadline day and the window drawing to a close, now is the perfect time to check out if you are eligible and make sure you or your loved ones are not missing out on this vital support.”
If you are entitled to Pension Credit this benefit could be worth on average £3,900 per year and if you are entitled to Pension Credit you will have an automatic entitlement to the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.
You may also receive other assistance such Housing Benefit, Council Tax Support, free TV licence and help with NHS dental treatment, glasses, and transport costs for hospital appointments.
To find out more visit the government website www.gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim or call 0800 99 1234.