News Have you checked whether you're eligible for Pension Credit?

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is asking residents to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit to receive some extra money to help with living costs.

MBC realises that some people may not be aware that they are entitled to Pension Credit which allows them to receive additional funds and is encouraging everyone to take the time to check.

Cllr Lottie Parfitt Reid – Cabinet Member for Communities & Public Engagement at MBC said:

We know from talking to our residents that some of people are confused about what they’re entitled do.

A common myth is that you cannot receive this funding if you have savings or your own home. However, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has said that hundreds of thousands of older people could be missing out on the extra money and the discounts they provide.

The Council would like to encourage everyone to check to see whether they are eligible to receive Pension Credit which could help them at this time when they may be struggling to pay their bills.

The Government Scheme – Pension Credit currently provides 1.4million people across the UK with support, who are over State Pension age and on a low income.

Anyone who would like more information on the scheme or to check whether they are eligible should go to the Government website: www.gov.uk and use the Pension Credit Calculator to see whether they can receive extra funds.

If someone should experience problems in accessing or completing the eligibility forms the MBC Welfare Team is on hand to help via email:   welfare.team@midkent.gov.uk

Those that qualify for Pension Credit can receive help including:

• Housing Benefit if they rent the property they live in
• Support for Mortgage Interest if they own the property they live in
• Council Tax discount
• Free TV licence if they are aged 75 or over
• Help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments
• Help with heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme
• A discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if they are moving house

Homes and Communities is one Maidstone Borough Council’s four priorities and the work being carried out at the Community Hubs with a Warm Welcome reflects that.

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