Updates from Citizens Advice Swale September 2024

What is Pension Credit?

Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit could also qualify eligible applicants other support including Winter Fuel Payment, housing costs, help with Council Tax and a free TV licence for those aged 75 and over.

Thanks to the Pension Credit backdating rules, it’s possible to apply for Pension Credit and have the claim backdated by up to 3 months - so long as there is entitlement during that time. This means that the latest date to apply and still qualify for Winter Fuel Payment is 21 December 2024.

It’s estimated that up to 880,000 households are still missing out on Pension Credit, and it’s worth, on average £3,900 per year. Too many people are missing out.

It’s easy to claim. People just need to make one simple, free phone call to 0800 99 1234, claim online or fill out a paper claim form, details of which can all be found on GOV.UK.

If you’d like additional support, you can attend our drop-in sessions without an appointment:

• Monday, 10am-12pm, Swale House, Sittingbourne
• Tuesday, 10am-12pm, Sheppey Gateway, Sheerness (except the second Tuesday of every month, which is held at Sheerness East Working Mens Club)
• Wednesday & Friday, 10am-12pm, 43 Stone Street, Faversham

Alternatively, email us at www.citizensadviceswale.uk/email-general-advice (Monday-Wednesday) or call Adviceline on freephone 0808 278 7979.

For debt advice, request a call back from our specialist money advice team at www.citizensadviceswale.uk/debt/.