Pensioners urged to check credit entitlements

Pensioners in Sunderland are being urged to check if they are eligible for extra cash – as figures show many could be missing out on a vital financial boost.

More than 82,000 pensioners in the North East currently receive Pension Credit.

But the Government says many are still not claiming this extra financial help, and it is calling for all pensioners to check if they could be eligible.

Minister for Pensions Guy Opperman said: “We want to make sure that all older people receive the support they are entitled to.

“Pension Credit can be claimed by phone and online, ensuring that older people can apply safely, wherever they are.

"The online Pension Credit calculator is also on hand to help pensioners check if they’re likely to be eligible and get an estimate of what they may receive.

“I also want to encourage everyone with retired family, friends, and loved ones to check in with them to see if they could be eligible for extra financial assistance through Pension Credit.”

Mr Opperman said having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving the credit .

He said even a small award could provide access to a range of other benefits – such as help with housing costs, council tax or heating bills.

For those over 75 and in receipt of Pension Credit, these additional benefits include continued entitlement to a free TV licence.

For more information, or to claim, go to gov.uk/pension-credit or call 0800 99 1234.