Residents reminded to claim their pension credit

Cyngor Gwynedd wants to remind residents that time is running out to claim their Pension Credit in order to reach the threshold to claim the Winter Fuel Payment for this year. ⁠To ensure that you can claim, an application must be submitted by the deadline on 21 December 2024.

A number of households in Gwynedd are entitled to the benefit but are missing out. The message is clear for older people - and their families and friends - to check whether they are entitled and to make an application before the deadline which is less than 40 days away.

An application can be made online, over the phone or through the post. All information is available on the Government's website https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit and support is available locally to those who are not online or who need help to make an application.

⁠Claiming pension credit could increase an individual's income to £218.15 per week or £332.95 per week for a couple. Gaining access to this credit could also open the door to other benefits, namely support with housing costs, council tax, heat allowance and TV licence.

The Council is working with partners to raise awareness to ensure that the county's residents receive what they are owed and make the most of the support available in the face of current social and economic challenges. 

Those who are unsure if they are eligible - or unsure how to make an application - are encouraged to take advantage of the support available by Cyngor Gwynedd, which includes:

• Many homes will receive a letter from Cyngor Gwynedd. Keep an eye out for the letter and follow the steps noted.
• Information regarding costs of living support is available on Cyngor Gwynedd's website. Visit Cost of living help (llyw.cymru)
• Enquire within your local Community Hub. Details about the location of the hubs and opening hours are available on Cyngor Gwynedd's website: Further support and community hubs (gov.wales)
• Cyngor Gwynedd officers attend regular community events and hold face-to-face sessions which is an opportunity to talk to people of all ages and backgrounds about the support available.

• Staff in Gwynedd Libraries and Siopau Gwynedd (Caernarfon, Pwllheli and Dolgellau) can refer people to support and help those who have no access to the internet to use computers free of charge. 
  
  

Councillor Nia Jeffreys, Deputy Leader of Cyngor Gwynedd and the Cabinet Member leading on tackling poverty issues said: "Ensuring that local people gain access to the financial support available for them is a priority for the Council. That is why we hold information sessions across the county, as well as working with our partners from the third sector to support Gwynedd Community Hubs.

"We would encourage anyone who is unsure if they are eligible, or unsure how to submit an application, to contact the Council or their Community Hub for support.

"There has been a lot in the news recently that losing the winter fuel payment was a devastating blow to some people. Therefore, claiming pension credit can make a world of difference to the lives of older people, as it is, on average, worth £3,900 per year.

“Pension Credit is available to help with the cost of living if you are over the State Pension age and on low income. I am concerned that many older people believe that they are not eligible as they have savings or own their own home, but this is not true. It is important to remember that claiming the credit can also open the door to benefits and other support."

For more information and to make an application, visit the UK Government website Pension Credit: Overview - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)