DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR PENSION COST OF LIVING PAYMENT

The City of Chester MP, Samantha Dixon, is urging people receiving a state pension to check their eligibility for a Pension Credit cost-of-living payment before the deadline on Friday 19th May.

The UK Government is issuing a cost-of-living payment of £301 to those receiving Pension Credit. 

Pension Credit has been set up to support your living costs if you’re over the State Pension age. It is separate from your State Pension, and you can receive it even if you have other income, savings or you own your home. 

Other benefits from Pension Credit include a Council Tax discount, a free TV license, support for housing and mortgage costs, and help with NHS costs. 

To check if you are eligible for Pension Credit, visit the government website or apply over the phone at 0800 99 1234 

Samantha Dixon recently raised the issue of Pension Credit uptake with the Minister for Pensions in Parliament.  

Chester’s MP said: “I am urging pensioners in Chester to check if they are eligible for Pension Credit as soon as possible. 

“Pension Credit uptake is a problem. It has one of the lowest take-up rates of any income-related support, but it could be a vital lifeline. There are 400,000 more pensioners in poverty today than when Labour was last in power, and more than a third of those eligible for Pension Credit are yet to claim. 

“Just last month, I visited a foodbank in Chester and heard the heartbreaking story of two pensioners in tears over having to use a foodbank for the first time because they cannot afford basic necessities. 

“Households across Chester are still struggling with the cost of everyday essentials. I am challenging the Government to increase awareness of these schemes to help people with their household finances. 

“I pledged to help Chester residents with the cost-of-living crisis. I will continue to represent their views in Westminster,” she added.

Pictured - The City of Chester MP, Samantha Dixon.