Are you one of thousands of people across Manchester missing out on Pension Credit?
It's not just Pension Credit you could be missing out on. You may be missing out on the other benefits you could get if you receive it, too.
For example, did you know you could get the Winter Fuel Payment if you are receiving Pension Credit?
To see if you qualify for Pension Credit:
- visit the Independent Age website; or
- call them for a FREE benefits check on 0800 319 6789.
Before calling, you’ll need:
- your National Insurance number
- information about your income, including your pensions
- details of your savings and investments
- your bank account details.
Additional support
You may be able to get additional support if you:
- aren't eligible for pension credit; and
- won't receive the Winter Fuel Payment.
Some households will qualify for automatic payments. You qualify if you receive council tax support or housing benefit and are aged 80 or over.
The payments will be:
- £150 for those aged 66 to 79; and
- £200 for those aged 80 or over.
This will be paid straight into bank accounts where we have the details, or in Post Office vouchers.
Hardship fund
We have created a new hardship fund for pensioners in need who:
- won't receive the winter fuel payment; and
- don't get this automatic payment.
Under this scheme, those aged 66 to 79 may be eligible for £150 payments. And those aged 80 or over may get £200. Referrals will be made through the Cost of Living Advice line.
Applications to the Hardship Fund can be made from Monday 18 November 2024.
There are also £100 automatic payments for households in receipt of council tax support where at least one person gets disability benefits.
Scam text warning concerning winter benefit provision
We are aware some residents are reporting receiving scam texts claiming to be from the Home Office or the website gov.uk and these scams are causing concern as they ask for people’s personal data such as bank account details.
The council will never contact you via random texts or unexpected calls to ask for personal data such as banking details. If you think you have received a scam text please report it to Action Fraud UK using their online reporting tool or call Action Fraud UK on 0300 123 2040, lines open Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm.