DWP issues urgent alert to anyone over 65 to claim 'gateway' benefit by today

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued an urgent alert to 800,000 state pensioners.

They have less than 24 hours to claim a key 'gateway' benefit and get an extra £299 cash payment. People need to apply for Pension Credit before the end of today (March 4) to receive the last cost of living payment.

The cut-off date to qualify for Pension Credit and still get the £299 is March 5. Claiming this benefit could also lead to more help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills.

Read more: Why thousands of DWP benefit payments are being cancelled

It's estimated that about 800,000 people who can claim pension credit don't do it.

Pension Credit is designed to top up the pensions of some of the poorest people in the country who depend on the state pension to live. It could be worth around £3,900 extra a year, reports Wales Online.

But it's not given automatically, so people have to apply for it themselves. Once it's been secured, it acts as a 'gateway benefit', leading to more help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills.

If you apply for Pension Credit by March 5, you could also get a further £299 boost in the form of a Cost of Living payment due to backdating rules. Pension Credit, which averages over £3,900 a year, is there to help with everyday expenses for those who have reached State Pension age and are on a low income.

Minister for Pensions Paul Maynard said: "We are committed to ensuring every pensioner receives the financial support available to them. Anyone who is unsure whether they or a loved one is entitled to Pension Credit should quickly check using our online Pension Credit calculator it's never been easier."

"Not only could this secure an extra £3,900 every year and unlock a