Oxfordshire Trading Standards have asked if we could share this warning.

4000+ people across Oxfordshire currently entitled to Pension Credit but not claiming it.

Providing people start an application by 18th December, and have been eligible for Pension Credit since September, they will get both their Pension Credit award (which will be ongoing), and the one-off cost of living payment of £324. People can still apply after 18th December, but they’ll miss out on the extra £324 this year (although there may be more payments for people on Pension Credit next year).

What is Pension Credit?

Pension Credit is an income supporting benefit for older people paid by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP). It is means tested, so whether people are eligible depends on their financial circumstances.

Who is eligible?

People must be over state pension age, which is 66 for most people. If people live with a partner, they’ll need to apply as a couple, and both must be over state pension age. There is no capital limit, so eligibility is a sliding scale that depends on income and capital. Generally speaking, if someone’s capital is under £10,000 and income for a single person under £182.60 per week or for a couple under £278.70 per week, they may be eligible. Any disability benefits received shouldn’t be included in income because AA, DLA and PIP don’t count towards income for Pension Credit.

How do people find out more / claim?

We have useful links to a benefits calculator and DWP information on our website here – https://www.ageuk.org.uk/oxfordshire/about-us/cost-of-living-campaign/

Claims can be made online via https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim or by calling DWP on 0800 991234.