The Department for Work and Pensions recently confirmed that nearly 78 per cent of all new claims for Pension Credit are processed - from initial application to award decision letter - within the target timeframe of 50 working days. This means older people on a low income making a new claim this month, especially those living on their own, could receive their first payment and any arrears before the end of July.
However, the latest figures from the DWP suggest there are still 880,000 eligible pensioners not claiming the benefit they are entitled to. This is £218.15 for a single person and £332.95 for a couple - this amount could be higher if you're disabled, a carer or have certain housing costs.How much could you get? Guarantee Credit tops up your weekly income to:
Independent Age offers free and confidential advice, their helpline number is 0800 319 6789, you can also email them at helpline@independentage.org. Full contact details can be found on their website here.If you qualify for Pension Credit you can also get other help, such as: All you have to do then is follow the link to the application page to find out exactly what you will get from the DWP, including access to other financial support.