Make sure you are eligible for Pension Credit

Pensioners across Dundee are being encouraged to apply for Pension Credit. 

On average, this could be an extra £3,900 a year. 

From this year, pensioners who receive pension credit are automatically eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment. 

The Council’s Advice Services team will be directly targeting households that may be eligible for Pension Credit. The team will be calling, emailing and carrying out face-to-face activities to assess eligibility and assist with the application process. 

In addition, the Council will be working with partners, including the DWP and Dundee Citizens Advice Bureau, in the coming weeks to encourage people to apply for this benefit. 

The last date to make a successful backdated claim for Pension Credit to receive this year’s Winter Fuel Payment is 21 December. Applicants need to request 3 months backdating when a claim is made in order to qualify. 

Since February this year nearly £1.5 million has been paid to the pensioners of Dundee in various benefits, with the average Pension Credit award being £63.51 per week. 

Pension Credit is a payment for those whose income is less than the UK Government states someone over Pension age should receive.    

Entitlement to Pension Credit depends on a person’s circumstances and looks at all the income in the household as well as savings over a certain amount. Whilst savings are considered, there is no upper threshold, so having savings does not necessarily mean there would be no entitlement.    

Pension Credit also gives eligibility to free NHS dental treatment, NHS glasses, free TV License for over 75s, amongst other benefits.    

Anyone looking to get a benefits check should contact us on cas@dundeecity.gov.uk or via our Older Peoples Take-up Campaign line on 01382 434474.

Council Leader Mark Flynn said: “Since the launch of this campaign, we’ve managed to get nearly £1.5 million into the pockets of pensioners across the city.  

“We know that many people will struggle with their heating bills over the winter period, which is why it’s so important for them to come forward and apply for Pension Credit, as this automatically makes them eligible for the Winter Fuel Allowance. 

“Hundreds of people are missing out on this important payment, and that needs to change. I want to highlight the great work of the council welfare rights team who are working tirelessly to contact pensions across Dundee to check eligibility and help them with their application.  

“I have no doubt that without their hard work, many more pensioners would be struggling this winter. 

“If you know someone who you think is eligible, please do get in touch with our team so that they can carry out a check for you.”