Find out how to apply for Pension Credit. You might be missing out on extra cash.

The Swiss Benevolent Society is encouraging pensioners in the UK to find out about the Pension Credit they may be missing out on.

Did you know that up to 850,000 families entitled to Pension Credit have not claimed it? It only takes a few minutes to make sure you’re getting all you’re entitled to.

Pension Credit means that people do not need to live on less than £201.05 a week for single people or £306.85 for couples. On top of that, people might also get help with housing costs, council tax and if you are over 75, a free TV licence.

What’s more, if you have reached State Pension Age before 6 April 2016 you may be entitled to extra money if you have made some provision towards retirement such as savings or a private pension. This is called the Savings Credit and could be up to £15.94 for a single person or £17.84 for a couple.

Nadine from Swiss Benevolent Society said: “I can’t stress enough the difference a friend or relative can make by doing a bit of research and talking to older relatives about what help is available.”

Still, lots of people could be missing out on Pension Credit because they wrongly think it isn’t meant for them. You might still get extra money even if you own your own home or have some savings.

Without delay take a look at the online calculator on GOV.UK to find out what you might get. Claims can be made online at www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.

Another fantastic resource is AgeUK. Pensioners can get help online www.ageuk.org.uk or call the free, confidential advice line on 0800 678 1602 to get support applying for Pension Credit and more. They are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. AgeUk helps millions of people every year, providing support, companionship and advice.

What is Pension Credit?

• it gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income.
• it can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges.
• Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension.
• You can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.

How much could I get?

• Pension Credit is worth, on average, £3,500 a year.
• You might get extra help if you’re a carer, severely disabled, or responsible for a child or young person.
• You can use the Pension Credit calculator to find out if you’re eligible for Pension Credit and how much you could get: www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator

What else could I get if I claim Pension Credit?

If you get Pension Credit you can also get other help, such as:

• Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
• Support for Mortgage Interest if you own the property you live in
• a Council Tax discount
• a free TV licence if you’re aged 75 or over
• help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments, if you get a certain type of Pension Credit
• help with your heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme
• a discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you’re moving house

Am I eligible?

You must live in England, Scotland or Wales and have reached State Pension age to qualify for Pension Credit. When you apply for Pension Credit your income is calculated. If you have a partner, your income is calculated together.

Pension Credit tops up:

If your income is higher, you might still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, you care for someone, you have savings or you have housing costs.

How do I apply?

• You can apply for Pension Credit online: gov.uk/pension-credit
• You can also call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234

What information do I need to apply?

You’ll need the following information about you and your partner if you have one:

• National Insurance number
• information about any income, savings and investments you have
• information about your income, savings and investments on the date you want to backdate your application to (usually 3 months ago or the date you reached State Pension age)
• You’ll also need your bank account details.

How do I find out more?

You can find out more about  Pension Credit by visiting gov.uk/pension-credit