Pensioners Urged to Check Benefit Eligibility

The North Tyneside Council is urging pensioners to check if they’re eligible for Pension Credit and other benefits. They’ve teamed up with Age UK North Tyneside and Citizens Advice North Tyneside to help residents access free, confidential benefit checks.

Recently, the government made changes to the eligibility rules for Winter Fuel payments. This means that not everyone who’s reached State Pension age will qualify this winter. Unfortunately, many seniors who are eligible for Pension Credit and other important benefits aren’t claiming them.

To help with this issue, the Council and partnering charities are offering personalized checks to ensure that all eligible residents take advantage of the support available to them before the deadline on September 23.

Cllr Karen Clark, a member of the Council, shared her concern about the changes in benefits. She emphasized how crucial Winter Fuel Payments are for many pensioners and highlighted that awareness is key in navigating these new changes.

Pensioners who think they might be eligible can reach out to the charities using the special code Winterfuel40 for a free entitlement check. Citizens Advice North Tyneside can be contacted for free at 0808 278 7822, and they’re available Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

If seniors prefer emailing, they can opt for a callback within 24 hours. Age UK North Tyneside can be reached at 0191 280 8484, and they’re open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.

Additional information on other support options available for the cost of living in North Tyneside can be easily found on their website.