Mayor Urges Residents to Check Eligibility for Pension Credit

Mayor Urges Residents to Check Eligibility for Pension Credit

Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is encouraging older residents across the region to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit, a vital support that could significantly boost household income during challenging times.

Pension Credit is a benefit aimed at topping up weekly income for those who have reached State Pension age. However, around a third of eligible people are not claiming it, potentially missing out on extra financial help.

What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is designed to ensure individuals and couples have a minimum income in retirement:

• £218.15 a week for single pensioners.
• £332.95 a week for couples.

For those over 65 who reached State Pension Age before 6 April 2016, the income thresholds are slightly higher:

• £260.68 a week for single pensioners.
• £380.55 a week for couples.

Why Check Now?
A change in circumstances—such as bereavement, health conditions, or disabilities—can make someone newly eligible for Pension Credit, even if they’ve been declined in the past.

Additionally, qualifying for Pension Credit can unlock other benefits, such as reductions in Council Tax and exemption from taxes on Pension Credit payments.

What You Need to Know

• The average weekly Pension Credit payment is over £75.
• Savings under £10,000 are disregarded in assessments, so even those with modest savings may qualify.
• Pension Credit can be backdated for up to three months.

Mayor Nik Johnson said:
“I urge every resident who has reached State Pension age to take a moment to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit. This support could make a significant difference to household finances, particularly as living costs remain high. Even if you’ve been turned down before, I encourage you to try again—circumstances can change, and you might now qualify for this essential support.”

How to Apply
Residents can check their eligibility and apply for Pension Credit by visiting GOV.UK or calling the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234.

Take a few minutes to check today—it could make a big difference.