Local MP, Maria Miller has backed Age UK’s campaign urging all Basingstoke pensioners living on low incomes to put in a claim for Pension Credit by 18th August 2022 or risk missing out on £650 of extra help towards the cost of living this year.
Maria said, ‘The biggest concern faced by people in Basingstoke is the escalating cost of living, caused by increased energy costs and inflation. Government figures are showing that a third of eligible pensioners are not claiming Pension Credit, so I urge all Basingstoke pensioners to check if they qualify for the extra £650 to help towards the cost of living this year.”
Pension Credit is a means tested benefits which entitles recipients to a £650 Cost of Living Payment. The £650 Cost of Living Payment will be paid out via two lump sums, the first from the 14th July and the second in autumn. As Pension Credit can be backdated by up to three months, your older constituents who are eligible but have not yet claimed Pension Credit can still receive both Cost of Living Payment instalments.
Pensioners in Basingstoke can use Age UK’s online benefits calculator to help see how much they might be entitled to. Age UK also provide advice for free via 0800 055 6112. The benfits calculator can be found here: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/benefits-entitl…
Further information on the Pension Credit can be found here: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/benefits-entitl…
ageuk.org.uk 's website offers advice on a wide range of other financial help.
