Are you eligible for Pension Credit?
As you may be aware, from this winter the Winter Fuel Payment will be linked to the receipt of specific means-tested benefits. As such, for many older people in Wales, Pension Credit will be the key to accessing their entitlement to the Winter Fuel Payment.
Pension Credit is a benefit for anyone who has reached the qualifying age and has a relatively low income. You may get it even if you have some savings and modest retirement income. It can be paid on top of your state retirement pension. If you have built up a pot of money through a defined contribution pension, how and when you choose to draw money out of it will affect the amount of Pension Credit you can receive.
It is estimated that around 80,000 eligible households in Wales do not receive the Pension Credit to which they are entitled. As part of its ‘Here to Help’ campaign to help people with the cost of living, Welsh Government is encouraging older people to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit. Advicelink Cymru is a Welsh Government funded Citizens Advice service designed to help people who are most in need of advice services, particularly those who would not usually seek advice. You can call Advicelink Cymru, on 0808 250 5700 for free and confidential advice about money you may be entitled to, and they can help you apply for welfare benefits, including Pension Credit. You can find out more on the Welsh Government support website. If you need information from the Welsh Government website in a different format like plain text, braille, BSL, large print, easy read or audio recording, you should contact them via email: customerhelp@gov.wales or phone 0300 0604400, stating the web address (URL) of the information you need, the format you would like to receive and which assistive technologies you use.
Some sight loss organisations provide a benefits advice service and may be able to help. These include:
- Vision Support (for north Wales): 01244 381515
- Sight Cymru Supporting People Services (Caerphilly): 01443 864548
- Deafblind UK Empowering Support: 0800 132320
- RNIB has information on benefits, including an online calculator on its website (Their helpline number is 0303 123 9999).
Posted on the 1st of September 2024