The Department for Work and Pensions is urging state pensioners to boost payments by “hundreds of pounds each year”. The DWP has launched a Pension Credit Week of Action.

The DWP says Pension Credit does more than provide direct financial help – it unlocks a range of support* that could save eligible pensioners hundreds of pounds each year.

“Please help us reach pensioners who may be eligible for Pension Credit, but unaware of the extra support it could provide for them,” the DWP said. The benefits department and Labour Party government has also said there are four ways Pension Credit to help pensioners save.

READ MORE Households in England waking up to letters about ‘one-off’ free £100 payment

Firstly, Pension Credit could help reduce your housing expenses. Eligible pensioners might also qualify for Council Tax Reduction to lower their council tax bill, Housing Benefit if they’re renting, or Support for Mortgage Interest if they own their home.

Secondly, Pension Credit can open access to additional energy support. Eligible pensioners could receive the Warm Home Discount to reduce electricity costs and Cold Weather Payments during particularly cold spells.

Thirdly, Pension Credit may provide access to essential free NHS services. This includes dental treatment and help with transport costs for hospital appointments.

And lastly, Pensioners aged 75 or over who are eligible for Pension Credit qualify for a free TV licence.. Pension Credit has two parts – Guarantee Pension Credit and Savings Pension Credit. You may be able to get one or both parts depending on your circumstances.

The type of Pension Credit you get may affect which passported benefits you automatically get.

Speaking last year, Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, said: “The £22 billion blackhole inherited from the previous governments means we are having to take tough decisions now to fix the foundations of our economy – including making the Winter Fuel Payments available to those most at need.

“1.3 million pensioners are already going to get help with fuel bills this year because they’re claiming pension credit – but thousands more are eligible.

“So, if you know someone who could get pension credit and help with their fuel bills, now is the time to help them apply for pension credit.”