The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued details on extra money that could be paid to people who receive certain disability benefits and are on a low income
Brits claiming Attending Allowance could be missing out on additional financial support worth more than £300 each month.
According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) those of State Pension age with a low income who also receive Attendance Allowance – or the middle or highest rate care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) – could also be eligible for additional Pension Credit. This also applies to older Scots claiming the new Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP).
Under the government’s Severe Disability Addition, those qualifying for the disability element of Pension Credit can receive an extra £82.90 per week, equating to £331.60 every four-week pay cycle. Couples claiming Pension Credit where one partner receives a disability benefit will also pocket the £82.90 sum – and if someone is in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, they may qualify for an additional weekly Pension Credit of £46.40.
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Elderly individuals might also secure this extra Pension Credit if they’re entitled to Carer’s Allowance but aren’t receiving it, or are getting it at a reduced rate because they’re being paid a higher amount by another income-related benefit such as the State Pension – a situation often referred to as an ‘underlying entitlement’. Currently, almost 1.4 million elderly people across Great Britain, including over 125,000 residing in Scotland, are benefiting from Pension Credit.
The DWP recently confirmed that this could offer an average of £4,300 in support over the coming year, reports the Daily Record. Despite the surge in claims, recent DWP data indicates that a staggering 760,000 eligible pensioners are still not claiming their rightful benefits.
Many elderly individuals mistakenly believe that owning property or having savings disqualifies them from this means-tested benefit. However, Pension Credit can offer assistance with housing costs, heating bills and Council Tax – as well as perks such as a free TV Licence. It ensures a minimum weekly income of £227.10 for single pensioners and £346.60 for couples.
Pension Credit – all you need to know
Elderly Brits, or their friends and family, can verify their eligibility and get an estimate of potential benefits using the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK here. Alternatively, you can ring the Pension Credit helpline directly to make a claim on 0800 99 1234. Lines are currently open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
If you qualify for Pension Credit, you may also be entitled to other help. This includes:
- Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
- Support for Mortgage Interest if you own the property you live in
- Council Tax discount
- Free TV licence if you are aged 75 or over
- Help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments
- Help with your heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme and Winter Fuel Payment
- A discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you are moving house
To use the Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK, you’ll need details about your earnings, benefits and pensions as well as any savings or investments you have. If you have a partner, you’ll need their details too.
You can kick-start your application up to four months before you hit State Pension age. You’re free to claim any time after reaching State Pension age, but bear in mind your claim can only be backdated for three months. This means you could pocket up to three months of Pension Credit in your first payment if you were eligible during that period. You will need:.
- Your National Insurance number.
- Details about your income, savings and investments.
- Your bank account details, if you’re applying over the phone or by post.
- If you’re backdating your claim, you’ll need to provide details of your income, savings and investments on the date you want your claim to commence.
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