Pension Credit
GUARANTEES FOR THE OVER 60’S
Pension Credit is an entitlement for people aged 60 or over living in Great Britain. This could mean extra money for you every week. Pension Credit guarantees everyone aged 60 and over an income of at least:
- £124.05 a week if you are single
- £189.35 a week if you have a partner
Also, if you or your partner are 65 or over you may be rewarded for saving for your retirement, up to:
- £19.71 if you are single
- £26.13 a week if you have a partner
If you apply for Pension Credit and are eligible, you may receive a payment backdated for up to 12 months from the day you were first entitled to the date you first applied.
From 6 October 2008, there is a proposal to change this period from twelve months to three months. If you want to apply for more than three months in the past, you will need to make sure that you send your application before 6 October 2008.
To apply for Pension Credit, you must be at least 60 or within four months of your 60th birthday. It does not matter if your partner is under 60.
Partner is defined as your husband, wife or civil partner, or the person you live with as if you are married to them or as if you are in a civil partnership with them.
From 2010 the age from which you can get Pension Credit will gradually increase. This will be in line with the State Pension age becoming 65 for women as well as men by 2020.
For more information or to discuss anything in this article feel free to contact Doug McLean via email or phone.
