PRESS RELEASE

August 15th, 2008

A third of pensioners don’t claim pension credit

Local MSP Duncan McNeil is urging local pensioners to check if they are eligible for pension credit.

He made the appeal after figures were released estimating that around a third of pensioners who are entitled to the benefit don’t claim it.

The take-up is so low that a new scheme has been launched to encourage people to apply.

Part of this benefits drive will allow pensioners who claim before October 6 this year back-dated money for the last 12 months.

Mr McNeil is keen to see that the pensioners of Greenock and Inverclyde get what they are owed.

He said: “Too many of this area’s poorest pensioners are missing out.

“Pension Credit guarantees that anyone who is eligible does not live on less than £124.05 a week.

“The additional income will ease the burden on many pensioners in Scotland who are struggling to make ends meet because of the rise in fuel bills.

“On top of that, pension credit can be a gateway to a whole load of other benefits.

“As a result of recent changes, the free central heating programme is an example of a service that is excluded to pensioners unless they receive pension credit.

“I know it can be hassle going through the process of means-testing but the benefits are very clear and have never been more needed than in the current financial climate.”

Both the Scottish and Westminster government launched a scheme this week that aims to encourage a greater uptake of pension credit.

As part of the benefits drive, they will try to simplify the process and allow people who claim before October 6 to receive one year’s backdated money.

You can apply for Pension Credit by freephone by calling on 0800 99 1234, or visiting www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/pensioncredit/form.asp.

ENDS