The council's Financial Inclusion Service is now contacting additional households identified as potentially eligible for unclaimed Pension Credit. Nationally, the government estimates that £1.5 billion in Pension Credit went unclaimed in 2023. Successful applicants may also qualify for further financial assistance.
Cllr Donna Higgins, Cabinet Member for Families and Communities at West Suffolk Council, stated: “We want our communities across West Suffolk to thrive. This income, together with the other benefits it can unlock, can make a huge difference to whether a household is thriving or simply surviving.”
She added that individuals can claim Pension Credit regardless of other income, savings, or home ownership. It is separate from the State Pension and is assessed based on age and income. Claiming full Pension Credit can also lead to eligibility for other benefits, including help with housing and council tax, a free TV licence, and assistance with heating costs.
While the council is directly contacting identified eligible households, residents do not need to wait for a letter to make a claim. Those who have not received a letter can inquire about Pension Credit eligibility at www.gov.uk/pension-credit/eligibility or by calling West Suffolk Council’s Financial Inclusion Service on 01284 757660.
Residents who receive a letter and wish to verify its authenticity can contact the Council’s customer services team. Further information on the Financial Inclusion Service is available at www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/cost-of-living/financial-inclusion.cfm, and details on other benefits unlocked by Pension Credit can be found at www.gov.uk/pension-credit.
