Who qualifies for Pension Credit
If you are aged 66 or over you could be eligible for Pension Credit, which tops up pension income and can help with everyday living costs. Even if you own your home or have savings, you might still qualify. As well as extra money every week to make sure pensioners have a minimum income, people who are entitled to Pension Credit can also get other benefits like:
- the Winter Fuel Payment
- help to pay for NHS dental treatment
- vouchers for glasses or contact lenses
- a free TV licence if they are over 75
Additional financial support may be available for people aged 66 or over who are carers, have a severe disability or look after a child.
Use the online calculator to check how much you could get and apply on the government website. People can also call the Pension Service helpline for free on 0800 99 1234.
Not everyone who qualifies for Pension Credit is currently claiming it, so lots of people are missing out.
How to apply
To apply for Pension Credit, you will need to provide some information about yourself, and your partner if you have one, including:
- national insurance number
- details of any other income, savings, or investments
- bank account details, including sort code and account number
We have been made aware of scam emails and text messages targeting residents across the UK, falsely claiming to offer help with financial support schemes. Remember that we will never ask you for payment to process applications for support. You can report suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and forward scam texts to 7726.
If you need assistance
If you would prefer to speak to someone in North Yorkshire you can get in touch with us by filling in a contact form and we will check if you are entitled to Pension Credit. Our friendly team is here to help and can complete your online claim with you over the phone. We can also check if you are entitled to other benefits including:
- a blue badge parking permit
- bus pass
- the 25% single person council tax discount for households where only one adult is living in the property
Other forms of support
There are other organisations that can also offer support to people who need help understanding the Pension Credit eligibility criteria or application process such as:
Other useful information
Visit our cost of living support page for information about other support schemes and organisations in North Yorkshire that can help if you are struggling to pay for essentials or are looking for ways to make your money go further.