Pensioners in the New Forest urged to check for Pension Credit eligibility
Pension Credit can help those on low incomes
Pensioners in the New Forest might be missing out on help from the Government – and the District Council (NFDC) is urging people to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit.
Pension Credit is an additional financial support that the government provides for those on low incomes and above State Pension age, topping up their weekly State Pension.
This week is Pension Credit Awareness Week (12th-16th June) and aims to promote awareness of the Pension Credit and how eligible residents can apply.
At the moment, nearly 2000 residents in the New Forest are claiming Pension Credit, with the council keen to promote the benefit so all those who can apply are aware of the support.
Cllr Jeremy Heron, portfolio holder for finance at New Forest District Council, said: “I encourage our residents who are over the State Pension age to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit, as this is a valuable additional form of financial support, especially during the current cost of living crisis.
“I also ask that our residents share this information with family and friends who are over the State Pension age to ensure that everyone is aware of the help that is available to them.”
The NFDC has also set up a partnership with Citizens Advice New Forest who can provide assistance with making applications.
An online calculator is available here, which can work how much support could be on offer and residents can apply online here, or by calling the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.