Are you entitled to Pension Credit? - If you've got a letter from us you probably are

Three older people smiling with text saying Are you or someone you know state pension age

Fife Council is currently writing to everyone they think may be entitled to Pension Credit to encourage them to apply.

Every year millions of pounds in benefits go unclaimed in Fife. That’s why we’re writing to those who are missing out and encouraging them to apply.

Anyone over State Pension age could be entitled to Pension Credit. This benefit not only tops up your pension but can also give you access to other financial support, such as the winter fuel payment, warm home discount and free TV licence.

Fife Provost, Cllr. Jim Leishman, has been backing the campaign from the start to make sure everyone is getting what they are entitled to.

He said: “There are still too many people not getting what they’re entitled to. That’s why we’re writing to them directly with details of how to apply.

“For older people it can be a worry when an unexpected letter comes through the post. I want to reassure them that these letters are coming from Fife Council and all the details of how to apply are on the letter.

“If you know someone who has received one of our letters, please let them know that it’s genuine and help them to make that step towards getting what is rightfully theirs.”

If you make a claim and are successful, before 22nd September you’ll also qualify for at least a £200 fuel payment in addition to any Pension Credit awarded.

Even if you haven't received a letter directly from us, you could still be entitled to Pension Credit or other benefits. You can use our quick and simple online benefit checker to see if you qualify. It only takes 10 minutes to check. You can apply online for Pension Credits at our.fife.scot/gethelp/pensioncredit

Audrey Whyte, Benefits Take Up Campaign lead said: " If you do qualify for Pension Credit, you'll also automatically receive a range of other benefits and support.

"For example, you'll automatically receive a Winter Fuel payment from the DWP if you were born before 23rd September 1958. This is worth £200 or £300 depending on your age and household circumstances.  You'll also get the Winter Heating Payment of £58.75 from Social Security Scotland around mid-December. You could also qualify for the Warm Home Discount, which is worth £150 if your energy supplier is part of the scheme.

"Anyone aged 75 and over, in receipt of Pension Credit, can also apply for a free TV licence.

"You could also get help with NHS costs if you get the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit. This can include things like dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments.

"So if you or anyone you know might qualify make sure you carry out a benefit check to make sure you aren't missing out on all this support. We want to make sure everyone is getting what they are entitled to. "

For those who are less digitally inclined, or who’d like a little extra support to complete an application, our friendly advisors are available to help you through the process. Simply call 0800 952 0330, Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and get the help you need. #GetHelpFife