Nearly 36,000 older people in Greater Manchester are missing out on more than £1,700 a year in pension top-up payments, new figures reveal.
Around £70 million is unclaimed across the city-region, with pensioners now being urged to check if they are eligible for the payment which 'could make all the difference'. 'Pension credit', a benefit designed to bring the weekly income of pensioners up to a minimum amount, could make those who are eligible £34 a week better off on average, with some able to claim much more.
This could be vital for helping older people during the cost of living crisis, a new campaign urges, as well as checking eligibility for attendance allowance and housing benefit.
In addition to extra income, receiving pension credit also unlocks other financial benefits such as a free TV licence for over 75s, council tax support and grants for insulation and other green home improvements.
Read more on manchestereveningnews.co.uk