Communities Minister has urged people over State
Pension age to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit to
help with living costs.
Pension Credit is extra money that can be accessed even if you
have other income, savings or own your own home.
It can also unlock additional support including NHS dental care,
help with heating bills and a free TV licence for over-75s.
Minister Lyons said: “Pension Credit can provide access
to a range of other supports and benefits which can be a lifeline
for our older generations.
“I would encourage anyone who thinks they may have a
benefit entitlement to avail of this free and confidential
service. I want to ensure that all available support and
entitlements go directly to those who most need them.
“I am committed to supporting older
people to access the services they are entitled to and will
continue to encourage Pension Credit uptake.”
Age NI Head of Advice and Advocacy Services Brenda Kearns said:
“Age NI welcomes this campaign by the Department for Communities,
to raise awareness of Pension Credit.
“It's crucial that older people are informed and supported to
claim all the financial help they are entitled to.
“We know, from listening to older people, that the extra money
from successfully claiming Pension Credit makes a big difference
to their finances and quality of life.”
There is extra help available for carers, severely disabled, or
those with responsibility for a child or young person.
If you get Pension Credit you can also get other help, such as:
- Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
- support for Mortgage Interest if you own the property you
live in
- help with NHS/HSC dental treatment, community optometry costs
including for glasses, and transport costs for hospital
appointments
- help with your heating costs
- a discount on the Royal Mail redirection service
(www.royalmail.com/receiving/redirection/concessions)
if you're moving house
It only takes about 20 minutes to make a Pension Credit claim.
This can be done online by visiting nidirect (www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/state-pension/pension-credit).
Applicants can use an online Pension Credit calculator to check
eligibility at www.gov.uk/pension-credit-calculator.
Alternatively, claims can also be made by calling the Northern
Ireland Pension centre on 0808 1006165 where agents can provide
important information surrounding eligibility and will guide
customers or a nominated representative through a telephone
application.
