Thousands of Hertfordshire Pensioners may be Missing out on Extra Cash

Herts County Hall

The Leader of Hertfordshire County Council is calling on Hertfordshire pensioners to check they have registered for Pension Credit. The call comes after MPs voted in favour of reducing entitlement to the Winter Fuel Payment. It will now just be paid to those getting Pension Credit, instead of all pensioners.

If you’re over State Pension age and on a low income, Pension Credit could give you around £3,900 a year, on average, to help with your living costs. Plus, being in receipt of it gives you access to the Winter Fuel Payment. It is estimated that around 15,000 people in the county could be missing out.

Councillor Richard Roberts, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council said: ‘We understand the financial pressures that our residents are facing, and these are likely to be even more acute during the colder winter months. We want to make sure that everyone is getting the support they are entitled to, including helping as many pensioners in Hertfordshire as possible to keep their Winter Fuel Payment where they can. If you think you might be eligible or know someone who might be, please do check, seek advice and take the action needed to claim.’

To check if you should apply, you will need to use an online tool first to see if you are eligible www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator. You can then claim by post, phone or online. You’ll need your National Insurance number, information about any income, savings, and investments you may have and a few other basic details. Visit www.gov.uk/pension-credit or call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234 to apply. To claim by post, print out and fill in the Pension Credit claim form or call the claim line to request a form.

The first £10,000 of savings are ignored completely and there is no fixed upper savings limit. It’s especially important to make sure the claim includes details about any attendance allowance or PIP that you receive, or if you care for someone who does. That can mean extra pension credit is paid to you. If you qualify for pension credit, you might also get more help with your council tax and rent.

All Hertfordshire residents can find out more find out about the range of local and national support, including how to apply for the Welfare Assistance Scheme at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/costofliving. If you need help and don’t know where to turn, contact HertsHelp – trained advisors are available to offer free, confidential assistance. They can put you in touch with relevant services and local support, visit www.hertshelp.net or call 0300 123 4044.