Do you know someone on a state pension who struggles to make ends meet? What if they could get a boost to their income? Too good to be true? A lot of other state pensioners certainly think so: a third of those who are eligible miss out. 

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over state pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit is separate from your state pension.

You can get Pension Credit even if you have other income, savings or own your own home.

When you apply for Pension Credit your income is calculated. If you have a partner, your income is calculated together.

Pension Credit tops up:

· Your weekly income to £182.60 if you’re single

· Your joint weekly income to £278.70 if you have a partner

If your income is higher, you might still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, you care for someone, or you have housing costs.

You might even qualify if you have savings. If you have £10,000 or less in savings and investments this will not affect your Pension Credit.

If you have more than £10,000, every £500 over £10,000 counts as £1 income a week. For example, if you have £11,000 in savings, this counts as £2 income a week.

Pension Credit not only provides extra income it can open the door to other help available such as Housing Benefit, Council Tax discount, free TV licence for over 75s, help with NHS costs, help with heating costs. 

Overall, the effects really can make a difference to pensioners who are struggling. 

Do you think you know someone who may qualify?  There’s an online calculator on the government website at gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator or you can ring the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.

Locally you can get in touch with us at Citizens Advice North Herts or Citizens Advice Stevenage. The CA Hertfordshire AdviceLine number is 0800 144 88. 

We can check you are claiming all the benefits you are entitled to. Don’t hesitate – Pension Credit can make a big difference.

For more information visit northhertscab.org.uk or stevenagecab.org.uk.