Luton Borough Council urges residents to claim Pension Credit ahead of deadline

Luton residents eligible for pension credit are being urged to apply before Saturday (December 21) to ensure they receive this year’s winter fuel payment.

Councillor Rob Roche, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Homelessness at Luton Borough Council, highlighted the importance of claiming the benefit and addressed the challenges many residents face in navigating the system.

Mr Roche said: "If you think you can apply for pension credit, then please do, and there is support to help you do that."

The eligibility criteria is as follows: single individuals with a weekly income below £218 are likely to qualify, as are couples with a combined income under £318.

Those with slightly higher incomes may still be eligible.

"If your threshold of income is below the levels we just spoke about, and you have a disability around the area, then apply for it," added Mr Roche.

"A lot of people think they’re not entitled to it," he said. "If people own their own home or have savings, they think they’re not eligible. But pension credit is not based on you being a homeowner or on having savings. It’s based on income and disability."

Savings over £10,000 are taken into consideration but do not automatically disqualify applicants.

To support those who may struggle with the application process, Councillor Roche emphasised that help is available: "You can still pick up the phone, speak to customer services, or go into the town hall and ask for help.

"Organisations like Citizens Advice can also assist with the application process."

The digital nature of many services can pose challenges for some residents, particularly older individuals, however Luton Borough Council assure they can support individuals in need, or redirect them to organisation who can help.

The December 21st deadline is critical for residents hoping to receive the winter fuel payment.

“That’s the last time to make an application for pension credit in relation to receiving the winter fuel payment for this year," Councillor Roche said.

While applications made after the deadline may still be backdated for pension credit, the winter fuel payment will no longer be included.

The impact of these initiatives has been significant. According to the Council, in one year, backdated pension credit payments in Luton exceeded £1.1 million, with some individuals receiving up to £5,500 in arrears.

If you want to apply for pension credit, visit the government website at gov.uk/pension-credit or call the helpline at 0800 991234.

The helpline is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and will also operate on Saturday, December 21st, until 3:15 PM for first-time claims.

You can also seek support in the application process by contacting Citizens Advice.