You may find this useful in your local area – as always, localise it.
Dear Resident
Important: Missing out on Pension Credit
We are contacting you from Surrey Heath Borough Council because we believe that it is highly likely that you are eligible for Pension Credit and potentially Attendance Allowance.
Your local borough councillor has hand delivered this follow up letter and potentially talked to you too as we all believe those fairly due state financial support should be helped access it.
A friend or family member can support application processes if you are unable to deal with these matters yourself and they can advocate on your behalf in good faith.
What is Pension Credit
Pension Credit is a benefit for people over State Pension Age to help top up their income. It is based on how much money you already receive and how much you have in savings. Single people could receive up to £984 per month, or £1,501 per month for couples.
Claiming Pension Credit is important because it means you may automatically be able to:
- Apply for a free TV licence if you’re 75 or over
- Get cold weather payments
- Get help with NHS costs like prescriptions, dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments.
How to claim Pension Credit
Call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234 (freephone).
They will ask you for:
- Your National Insurance Number
- Information about your income, savings and investments
- Your bank account details.
If you cannot hear or speak on the phone, use Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 99 1234. A friend or family member can call for you if you cannot use the telephone.
Attendance allowance
As well as claiming Pension Credit, if you are sick, disabled or have caring needs you could also apply for Attendance Allowance. This is extra help for people of State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision because of illness or disability.
Attendance Allowance can be worth up to £110.40 per week. Call the Government’s Attendance Allowance free helpline on 0800 731 0122. Again a friend or family member can help here too.
Support available
We are working in partnership with Age UK Surrey to help older residents across Surrey, particularly those alone without a strong support network. [Contact details and officer details provided in the full version of the letter]