Residents were able to check their eligibility for Pension Credit and find out about extra support on offer at an event in Chatham Town Centre.
More than 100 people attended the special event at Pentagon Centre in Chatham, where they were able to talk to experts from Medway Council’s Benefits and Financial Welfare team, as well as representatives from the Department for Work and Pensions and a range of voluntary organisations and council services.
Pension Credit is a benefit worth on average more than £3,900 a year, but it’s estimated that 440 Medway residents who are eligible to claim it are not currently doing so. To help raise awareness Medway Council has written to all residents who we believe are eligible to claim, and the event last week was another attempt to share the support that’s on offer.
Cllr Teresa Murray, Deputy Leader of Medway Council, was at the event: “I’m really proud of the fact that we can join together in Medway for an event like this, and really pleased that so many people came along. People were able to claim pension credit if they’re entitled to it and take advantage of all the help available in Medway for older people and others in the community who might be worrying about facing the winter.
“I spoke to lots of people who came to listen to what’s on offer. As well as financial support, they were able to find out about lots of opportunities that aren’t just about money – such as volunteering work or adult education courses, which can help improve quality of life for both participants and others.”
What is Pension Credit?
Pension Credit is a benefit to help with living costs for those who are over state pension age and on a low income. Pension Credit is separate from your state pension, and having savings, a private pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving it.
When you apply for Pension Credit your income is calculated. If you have a partner, your income is calculated together. If your income is higher, you may still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, care for someone, or have housing costs.
To make a claim for Pension Credit, you will need to provide:
- Your National Insurance number
- Information about any income, savings and investments you have
- Information about your income, savings and investments on the date you want to backdate your application to (maximum of three months)
- Your bank account details.
Depending on how you apply, you may also be asked for your bank or building society name, sort code and account number. If you are applying for Pension Credit, you should only ever use the official government website or official Pension Credit claim line: 0800 99 1234. You can also check your eligibility for Pension Credit on the government’s website. You can find out more information on our Financial Welfare Hub or by calling the team on 01634 331500.