PENSIONERS in Kirklees are missing out on money they are entitled to.
Some 6,000 to 10,000 people in the area could claim cash from pension credits while an estimated 120,000 people across Yorkshire and Humberside are missing out.
This month will see the biggest rise in pension credits which are designed so that individuals don’t live on less than £130 a week, or couples on less than £198.
On top of that, people may also get help with rent and council tax or even extra cash for caring for someone.
Janice Charnock, from Calderdale and Kirklees Pension Service urges friends and relatives to help out.
She said: “I can’t underestimate the difference a friend or relative can make by doing a bit of research on what help is available.
“People’s circumstances change all the time and even if they have not been eligible for help in the past that doesn’t mean they won’t be now.
“Whether it’s through pension credit, attendance allowance or carer’s allowance, money is there to be paid to those who need it.”
In Kirklees, an average of £49.30 per week is claimed in pension credit by those who are entitled.
Older people who find it hard to carry out tasks such as dressing, washing or eating also benefit from attendance allowance.
The money is tax free and doesn’t relate to earnings or savings.
On Monday, pensioners and relatives are invited to a temporary tea room in McCauley Street from 10am to 4pm to talk to pension experts.
Alternatively, access the online pension credit calculator at www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/pensioncredit/calculator
