Pension Credit
As part of our ongoing commitment to ensure all eligible pension-age residents receive the support they are entitled to, I am pleased to announce that I have teamed up with the Citizens Advice Leeds to offer two special drop-in sessions to help you check your eligibility for Pension Credit and assist with your application.
Currently, only 63% of those eligible are claiming this important benefit, and many could be missing out on financial support that they are entitled to receive.
​
No appointment is needed. Simply drop in at a time that suits you. Experienced staff from the Citizens Advice Leeds will be available to help guide you through the process.
Drop-in Session Dates
-
Thursday, October 17th, 9am – 3pm
-
Tuesday November 12th, 9am – 3pm
Location
Oxford House, Oxford Row, Leeds, LS1 3BE
What You Need to Bring
To ensure we can efficiently assist you, please bring the following information (for yourself and your partner)
​
-
National Insurance number
-
Details of your income, savings, and investments
-
Bank account details
Why Pension Credit Matters
Pension Credit is more than just a financial top-up—it can also act as a passport to other benefits that could make a significant difference to your day-to-day life. These include:
​
Claiming Pension Credit doesn't just top up your income – it could help you get other benefits, too.
-
You’ll get free NHS dental treatment, and you can get help with the cost of glasses and transport to hospital.
-
If you care for someone, you might get an extra amount known as Carer Addition, which is worth up to £45.60 a week.
-
If you have a disability, you may get an extra amount known as Severe Disability Addition, which is worth up to £81.50 a week.
-
You probably won't have to pay Council Tax (unless other people live with you).
-
If you rent your home, you might get your rent paid in full by Housing Benefit.
-
If you own your home, you might be eligible for help with mortgage interest, ground rent and service charges.
-
If you're 75 or over, you can get a free TV licence
-
You’ll be eligible for a Cold Weather Payment during particularly cold weather.
-
The Government has announced that from winter 2024 onwards, only people who claim Pension Credit (or another means-tested benefit) will be eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, an annual payment to help with heating costs during the colder months.
You have nothing to lose by applying, and potentially a lot to gain – and if you've previously been turned down, you can still make a new claim each year. Even if your income or savings seem too high, you might still be entitled to Pension Credit and its valuable associated benefits.
If you're unsure whether you qualify or need help with your application, please attend one of our drop-in sessions. If you cannot attend a session, you can call the Pension credit 0800 99 1234.