Households encouraged to check now whether they might be eligible for support
Pensioners may be able to claim extra cash.
Hundreds of thousands of pensioners can claim extra support to help them pay their bills.
Older people are now being urged to check if they might be eligible for extra payments before winter arrives.
Pension Credit tops-up money for low-income pensioners, which can prove crucial in helping to cover energy bills and other costs.
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But around 800,000 people don’t claim it despite being eligible, making Pension Credit one of the most underclaimed benefits.
It tops up weekly income to £227 for a single person and £346 if they are in a couple – up to £1,384 month.
Even if it’s only worth a small amount, it’s worth claiming the money to help towards costs.
It could also make pensioner households eligible for certain other benefits.
Energy bills are expected to rise again in October, piling more pressure on struggling pensioners – so it’s worth checking if you might be able to get extra help.
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Family members and friends are also encouraged to help them check, as people can sometimes be put off by thinking the process will be a hassle.
Citizens Advice says: “If you’ve reached state pension age, you might be able to apply for Pension Credit.
“Pension Credit is a weekly benefit to boost your income.
“It’s based on how much money you have coming in.
“If you think you won’t get much Pension Credit, it could still be worth applying.”