Pension Credit is a means tested benefits which entitles recipients to a £650 Cost of Living Payment.

According to the latest Government figures, a third of pensioners eligible to claim Pension Credit are missing out which is concerning, as the cost of living continues to rise.  The figures show that 770,000 eligible pensioner households (single people or couples) are not receiving Pension Credit.

You can use Age UK’s online benefits calculator to see how much you could be entitled to.

For eligible people, the £650 Cost of Living Payment will be paid out via two lump sums, the first from the 14^th July and the second in autumn.  As Pension Credit can be backdated by up to three months, those who are eligible but have not yet claimed Pension Credit can still receive both Cost of Living Payment instalments.

To ensure you receive the first instalment, you must claim Pension Credit by 18^th August 2022.

Age UK also provide information on Pension credit, including advice on:

• How Pension Credit works
• How to claim Pension Credit
• What the other benefits to claiming Pension Credit are

Their guide on changes to energy prices includes more information on what financial support is available, including:

• Warm Home Discount
• Winter Fuel Payment
• Council Tax rebate
• Household Support Fund

You can also access support through Age UK’s free advice line on 0800 055 6112. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year.

Additionally, there are specialist advisors at local Age UKs. They can provide information and advice to older residents, their carers, relatives, and friends by telephone, email, in writing, or in person. Our nearest local Age UK is Age UK Manchester.