Some 92,000 pension credit claims were rejected by the government between April and December this year while 91,000 claims were awarded.
In comparison, between April 2023 and March 2024, the number of claims accepted was higher than those rejected at 134,000 and 112,000 respectively, the data showed.
Final applications for the cash boost – which used to be available to all pensioners – must be in by 21 December.
To be eligible, you need to be at least state pension age – 66 – and receive a qualifying means-tested benefit, like pension credit.
In order to successfully get pension credit, you need to meet the following criteria:
You must have reached state pension age. You must live in the UK. Your weekly income should be below £218.15 if you’re single, or £332.95 if you’re in a couple. If you have a disability or caring responsibilities, you might still qualify with a slightly higher income. If you have savings and investments over £10,000, each £500 above this amount counts as £1 in additional income per week when calculating eligibility. For example, if you have £11,000 in savings, this counts as £2 income a week.If you are awarded pension credit, you may also be eligible for several additional benefits including a free TV license if you’re 75 or older, which covers everyone living at your address.
You might also get help with your rent through housing benefit, a discount on your council tax, and other benefits that can ease financial pressure.
According to estimates published in October, more than 800,000 pensioners are eligible for pension credit but not claiming it.
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Read MoreJon Greer, head of retirement policy at Quilter, said: “With the last date for making a backdated claim for pension credit to receive the winter fuel payment now just days away, it is vitally important that pensioners on low incomes check their eligibility.
“Pension credit also unlocks a variety of other benefits that can help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills.
“Applying is simple and can be done online, by printing and completing a paper form, or by calling 0800 99 1234.”
The lack of take-up is largely attributed to a lack of awareness it exists, despite the DWP’s awareness drive.
Pension credit is made up of two parts. The first is a guarantee credit, which tops up your weekly income to the minimum guaranteed level. The second is a savings credit, which provides a small top up for people who reached state pension age before 6 April 2016 and have a modest amount of income.
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