Eastbourne and Willingdon MP Caroline Ansell is making an urgent appeal for older people to apply for Pension Credit by 18th December so they receive November’s £324 cost-of-living payment.
Caroline has previously expressed concern that up to 1000 older people in the town have not applied for this benefit.
Pension Credit is a top up worth on average £3,300. As well as a cash top up to the state pension, it also acts as a passport to other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax reduction schemes, heating bills and a free over-75s TV licence.
In Eastbourne, nearly 3000 residents do claim the credit. This means an estimated £9 million in additional government support is coming in across the town.
However, around 25% of people who could claim the extra help do not currently do so.
“I do not want any older person in our town to miss out on this crucial payment just before Christmas. If you think you might be eligible for Pension Credit, then please apply,” said Caroline.
“The DWP has told us that, if anyone applies by 18th December then they will get November’s payment as it can be backdated by three months. “This is a good sum of money in challenging times.
“If carers or relatives are reading this and they think there is someone who could benefit, please use the contact details below to find out without delay.”
Pension Credit can be claimed online, by telephone or by post. Information is available on Gov.UK website www.gov.uk/pension-credit or by calling the Freephone Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
