WASPI Women Urged to Claim £4,200 Annual Boost as New Pensions Minister Highlights Benefits

Falkirk: The new Pensions Minister, Torsten Bell, is on a mission. He wants low-income pensioners, especially women born in the 1950s, to check if they can get an annual boost of around £4,200. This push comes after some questions were raised in Parliament about how well Pension Credit is helping older folks, particularly those affected by changes to the State Pension age.

Bell explained that Pension Credit is a safety net for those struggling financially. It guarantees a minimum income for pensioners who need it. If you’re a single pensioner earning less than £218.15 a week, or a couple with a combined income under £332.95, you might qualify for this benefit.

Starting April 7, the Standard Minimum Guarantee will increase by 4.1%. This means single pensioners will see their weekly income rise to £227.10, while couples will get £346.60.

Surprisingly, about 760,000 older people are missing out on Pension Credit. Even claiming just £1 a week can unlock extra help with rent, Council Tax, and heating bills. Plus, if you’re over 75, you can get a free TV licence.

Bell reassured everyone that the government is committed to supporting pensioners. He emphasized that receiving Pension Credit opens doors to more financial support, like help with bills and a free TV licence for those over 75. The government is working hard to raise awareness about Pension Credit, especially for those women born in the 1950s.

Recently, over 50 MPs urged the government to reconsider compensation for the 3.5 million women affected by changes to their State Pension age. They want a vote on whether restitution should be provided. Bell responded, saying they need to make decisions based on evidence and fairness. He pointed out that most women were aware of the changes, and earlier notifications wouldn’t have made much difference.

In the coming weeks, around 11 million pensioners will receive information about Pension Credit with their State Pension updates. Currently, about 1.4 million people, including 125,000 in Scotland, benefit from Pension Credit, which tops up their income to a minimum level.

If you think you might be eligible for Pension Credit, the easiest way to check is through the online calculator on GOV.UK. You can also call the Pension Credit helpline at 0800 99 1234 for help. More info is available on the GOV.UK website.