DWP update as older people could see £4,200 income boost in time for Easter

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has recently confirmed that nearly 78% of all new Pension Credit claims are processed within the target timeframe of 50 working days. This means that older people on a low income, particularly those living alone, could receive their first payment and any arrears before Easter Sunday on April 20.

Despite the full New State Pension now being worth £221.20 per week and the full Basic State Pension worth £169.50, data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that in 2021, some 3.3 million people aged 65 years and over were living alone in England and Wales.

It's crucial for all older people - single, married or cohabiting - to make sure they are claiming all the additional financial support they are entitled to this year to help boost their income and offset the ongoing cost of living crisis, reports the Daily Record.

The eligibility rule change to the annual Winter Fuel Payment means that only pensioners in claim for certain benefits, such as Pension Credit, received the 2024/25 payment by January 29. Pension Credit, the most under-claimed benefit in the UK, is designed to provide additional financial support for older people on a low income.

Currently, nearly 1.4 million older people across Great Britain, are receiving this means-tested benefit, which could provide an average of £4,200 in extra support in the coming months.

Despite common misconceptions, having savings or owning a home does not necessarily disqualify one from receiving Pension Credit, which can also help with housing costs, heating bills and Council Tax. Even an award of just £1 per week can unlock other forms of support.

Here's a brief overview of Pension Credit, including eligibility criteria,