DWP to send every pensioner letter that could boost income by more than £4,000 this year

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to send a vital letter for those who could be in for an income boost of more than £4,000 this year.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released new data showing that 12.9 million people are currently claiming the State Pension. Of these, 4.1 million are on the New State Pension (post-April 2016), while 8.8 million are receiving the Basic (or Old) State Pension (pre-April 2016).

Both the New and Basic State Pensions are due to increase by 4.1% in April under the earnings growth measure of the Triple Lock. However, additional elements, along with working age and disability benefits, will rise by 1.7% according to the September Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate.

The DWP will send a letter to every pensioner before the payments increase on April 7, typically arriving in March. It's crucial that recipients read this letter to verify the correct amount they will receive, reports the Daily Record.

An important leaflet included with the letter could potentially boost annual income by an average of £4,200. This leaflet contains information about claiming Pension Credit, a means-tested benefit, and encourages pensioners to check their entitlement.

It's vital for all older individuals - whether single, married or cohabiting - to ensure they're claiming all the additional financial support they're entitled to in 2025 to help augment their income and counteract the ongoing cost of living crisis.

The annual Winter Fuel Payment eligibility rules have been altered, meaning only pensioners receiving certain benefits, such as Pension Credit, will be eligible for the 2024/25 payment. Pension Credit is the most under-claimed benefit, aimed at providing extra financial