Council invites residents to apply for Pension Credit as millions go unclaimed every year

The Council says that more than 2,400 residents in the borough may be entitled to claim for Pension Credit but have not yet applied for a variety of reasons, one of which is because they feel there is a stigma attached to being in receipt of a benefit.  The Council is keen to ensure that those eligible take steps to be assessed for this much needed top-up.

It is estimated that around £6.15m in Pension Credit is unclaimed in Trafford every year and this is a figure that is on the increase. It is vital that older people who are entitled to Pension Credit apply for it as it opens up eligibility for the Winter Fuel Payment, Warm Home Discount, lower water bills, and free TV licenses.

Those on Pension Credit may also be able to claim Housing Benefit and/or Council Tax Support.

Also, eligible older people will miss out on the support they are entitled to through the Winter Fuel payment if they do not apply for Pension Credit before December 21.

Cllr Jane Slater, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy and Independent Lives, said:

“Trafford Council is inviting all eligible residents to apply for a top up to their pensions through Pension Credit.

“It is important that those people who are eligible for the tops ups apply for them as soon as possible. If you have loved ones living in Trafford who qualify please can you ensure they are aware and are applying.”

Anyone who wants any help or advice on Pension Credit can call Age UK Trafford on 0161 746 3940 or email admin@ageuktrafford.org.uk. The African Caribbean Care Group can also help, website African Caribbean Care Group - Home - ACCG Manchester.

To apply for Pension Credit, please phone 0800 99 1234.

Article source: Trafford Council