16 July 2004 - Pension Credit – increased take-up in June
The latest figures on Pension Credit take-up show the total number of households receiving the entitlement is now at 2.55 million (3.09 million individuals).
Published by the Department for Work and Pensions, the figures show that 52,000 additional households (66,000 individuals) started to receive Pension Credit during the month of June.
The average weekly award is £41.99 and of those receiving Pension Credit, 1.89 million households (2.22 million individuals) are now getting more money than was the case under the old Minimum Income Guarantee.
To ensure that people do not loose out, customers whose applications are successful in the period up to October 2004 will have their entitlement backdated to 6th October 2003 (or to the date of entitlement if this is later). The 2004 Budget statement confirmed that these arrangements will continue beyond October 2004. This means that anyone eligible applying after October 2004 will see their entitlement backdated by up to 12 months.
Pension Credit applications can be made via the freephone Pension Credit application line on 0800 99 1234. There is a textphone service for those who have hearing difficulties on 0800 169 0133. Successful claims can be backdated twelve months, or to the date of entitlement if that is later.
A Pension Credit calculator is also available on the Pension Service Website where people can get an estimate of any possible Pension Credit award at http://www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/pensioncredit/calculator/home.asp
Notes for editors
[an error occurred while processing this directive]- A detailed report of the Pension Credit campaign up to May was published on 6th July and can be found at:
www.dwp.gov.uk/publications/dwp/2004/pension_credit/rev_campaign_may04.pdf (690KB)
- Pension Credit has been payable since October 6th 2003.
- The Pension Credit application line is open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday.
- Pension Credit guarantees everyone aged 60 and over an income of at least £105.45 for single people and £160.95 for couples.
- Extra amounts will be added for those who have relevant housing costs, severe disabilities or caring responsibilities.
Press office media enquiries: please contact Stewart Todd - 020 7238 0643
Press office: 020 7238 0866
Out of hours: 07659 108 883
Public enquiries: 020 7712 2171
Website: www.dwp.gov.uk