MP Julie Marson is urging older people across Hertford and Stortford to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit as the benefit could help with cost-of-living pressures.
Pension Credit is a top up that is worth an average of £3,300. As well as a cash top up to the state pension, it also acts as a passport to other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax reduction schemes, heating bills and a free over-75s TV licence.
Nearly 1,400 claim it in Hertford and Stortford but it is thought around 25% of people who could claim the extra help do not currently do so – meaning there are potentially hundreds in the constituency missing out.
“This is a substantial benefit that could help many older people in the constituency with cost-of-living pressures in the coming months,” said Mrs Marson.
“However, it’s a big concern that there might be hundreds who are missing out because they don't know about it or they wrongly think they are not eligible.
“Can I please urge older people, their families and carers to double check if this benefit is available to them or their loved ones. I would not like to think a single older person in Hertford or Stortford was not receiving it when they are entitled to it.”
Pension Credit can be claimed online, by telephone or by post. Information is available on Gov.UK website www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
To raise awareness, the Government has launched a major campaign to encourage eligible pensioners, as well as those who care for and support older people, to access the help they are entitled to.
The Department for Work and Pensions will send leaflets to 11 million pensioners. A high-profile media day will also take place on 15 June 2022.
