Nine days left for pensioners to get a £299 boost

Hundreds and thousands of pensioners could pocket an extra £299 if they claim pension credit in the next nine days.

Those who successfully apply for pension credit before 5 March could also secure a further £299 cost of living payment thanks to backdating rules.

Pension credit, which is worth £3,900 on average a year, is there to help low-income retirees with everyday living expenses.

Around 1.4 million pensioners already receive pension credit. However, it remains one of the most underclaimed benefits with around a further 880,000 eligible pensioners yet to claim it.

For single pensioners, pension credit guarantees a minimum weekly income of £201.05. And it’s worth £306.85 for couples. Additional help is also available for those with disabilities or caring responsibilities.

Claiming pension credit – even is it’s a small amount - can also open the door to other financial support, such as help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, as well as the £299 backdated cost of living payment.

You can apply for pension credit by:

• Calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
• Online here
• By printing out, filling in and returning a paper application form

You can use our free benefits checker to see if you’re eligible for pension credit or to make sure you’re not missing out on extra help.