CLAIM IT
Martin Lewis explains how to boost your pension by up to £1,040 a year with one phone call
MARTIN Lewis has explained how Brits can boost their pension by up to £1,040 a year with one phone call.
Pension credit is a top up for lower income retirees, but around 1million of those eligible are missing out.
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It's easy to find out if you're eligible and make a claim by making a quick phone call.
You could get up to £20 a week extra, which works out at £1,040 a year, according to MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis.
"If you're a lower income pensioner, or you know someone who is, call the pension credit hotline, ask them if you're eligible," he said on ITV's
"The worst they can do is say no, but they may say yes and it could be £10 or £20 extra a week which is important."
The number to call is 0800 99 1234 and you'll need some key information to hand to make an application.
You'll need to give your national insurance number and information on your current income, savings and investments.
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If you want to backdate your claim to the date you reached state pension age, you'll also need to provide financial information for that time period.
Remember to provide your bank account details as well.
Claimants can also apply by post by printing out and filling in the pension credit form available on the government's website.
If you need help with the form you should contact or for free.
You can also make an .
Who is eligible?
You must live in England, Scotland or Wales and have reached to qualify for Pension Credit.
If you live with your partner, you'll need to include them on your application.
You’ll be eligible if either:
- you and your partner have both reached State Pension age
- one of you is getting Housing Benefit for people over State Pension age
How much could I get?
Pension credit tops up your weekly income to £177.10 if you're single or £270.30 if you live with a partner.
You may get extra amounts depending on your personal circumstances, such as having a severe disability or caring responsibilities.
The top up and extra amounts are known as ‘Guarantee Credit’.
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Claiming pension credit will unlock a number of other benefits.
For example, you will automatically become eligible for the cold weather payment to help with heating bills in the winter.
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