DWP Encourages 1950s-born Women to Check for Potential £4,200 Boost in Annual Income
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging women born in the 1950s to assess their eligibility for a potential annual income increase of around £4,200. The call to action comes as Pensions Minister Torsten Bell seeks to ensure that all low-income pensioners and women from this demographic group, also known as WASPI women (Women Against State Pension Inequality Campaign), are aware of the financial support available to them. This initiative follows a query by Labour MP Euan Stainbank, who questioned the effectiveness of Pension Credit in addressing financial hardships among older individuals, specifically those women affected by changes in the State Pension age.
Pension Credit was introduced to combat pensioner poverty by providing a safety net for low-income pensioners, guaranteeing a minimum level of income. Currently, the means-tested benefit offers a weekly income boost for single pensioners with a total weekly income below £218.15 and couples with a combined income below £332.95. From April 7, the Standard Minimum Guarantee (SMG) will rise by 4.1%, with a single pensioner set to receive £227.10 per week and a pensioner couple receiving £346.60 weekly. Despite the availability of Pension Credit, recent figures from the DWP reveal that 760,000 eligible older individuals are not claiming the benefit.
Even a small weekly award of just £1 can unlock access to various additional financial aids, such as assistance with rent, council tax, Winter Fuel Payments, Pension Age Winter Heating Payment, and free TV licences for individuals over 75. Emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting pensioners, the DWP Minister stated, “The Government is absolutely committed to supporting pensioners and giving them the dignity and security they deserve in retirement.” Receipt of Pension Credit also opens doors to other forms of financial support, including help with rent, Council Tax, fuel bills, and a free TV licence for those over 75.
A parliamentary discussion last week saw over 50 MPs urging the UK Government to reconsider its decision not to implement a compensation plan for over 3.5 million women impacted by changes in the State Pension age. In response, Minister Bell highlighted the importance of evidence-based decisions that are fair to all, noting that most women were aware of the increasing state pension age. An ongoing government campaign aims to raise awareness and encourage eligible individuals, including women born in the 1950s, to claim Pension Credit. In the upcoming weeks, approximately 11 million pensioners will receive leaflets promoting Pension Credit alongside their State Pension uprating letters.
Pension Credit currently supports 1.4 million people, ensuring a minimum weekly income of £218.15 for single pensioners and £332.95 for couples. Eligibility for Pension Credit can be quickly verified using the online calculator on GOV.UK, or individuals can contact the Pension Credit helpline to make a claim. Additional help and advice are available for those seeking to claim Pension Credit. The law change in May 2019 impacted ‘mixed age couples,’ preventing them from claiming Pension Credit until both partners reach State Pension age, unlike the more generous benefits available previously.
The DWP’s push for increased awareness and uptake of Pension Credit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting pensioners in need. By encouraging eligible individuals, especially women born in the 1950s, to explore their entitlements, the DWP aims to alleviate financial hardships and ensure a secure and dignified retirement for all.
*Note: This rewritten article aims to provide a concise, clear, and neutral summary of the original content, emphasising the key points and recommendations made by the DWP regarding Pension Credit for older individuals, particularly women born in the 1950s. The rearrangement and rephrasing of the information are intended to enhance readability and comprehension for the readers.