Pension Credit Help.

shauniebabe

Hi Guys,

Wondering if anyone could help. My father in law has recently come out of hospital and today recieved a letter saying that he has got someone from the DWP coming out to discuss his Pension and Pension credits.

Obviously at 82 nearly 83 hes a bit forgetful and hard of hearing so one of us is going to be with him when they come even though it means missing work, however what we would like to know is why they are coming? What they want to see and What they will need to see!

Does anyone have any experience of this?

The other thing is we are hoping he hasnt been getting overpaid because they will want this back so does anyone know the thresholds?

Thanks in advance!

margaretclare

A year or two back my DH used to get letters from the Pensions Service noting that he hadn't applied for pension credit and they wondered why not - was he getting all he was entitled to? We'd already done the sums - more than once - and knew we weren't entitled. After about 3 attempts they wouldn't be convinced, so he said 'oh all right then'. A nice lady came along, we asked her in. He handed her his income details and her bottom hardly hit the chair before she realised that no, we weren't entitled, and she didn't even get round to asking about my income!

We had a pleasant chat for a few minutes, she said the Department was concerned that a lot of people might be entitled but were put off applying, they were keen that everyone should get what they should have. And that was that.

Just have to hand your Dad's income details, his pension statement, bank statement maybe, any other pension details, works pension etc. And also, what he pays out: council tax, rent, anything like that. They will help him to do the necessary application. Nothing to worry about. It's not the Gestapo!

anmarj

it might be that a reveiw was due before April 09 and not been completed so depending on age and when review is due then I often send out requests for visits to be done as it is easier than sending a form and hoping for the right info to be there. You can maybe try calling the local office (number halfway down letter under name of visiting officer) and see if they would give you some idea over the phone.

Newly_retired

I guess he is due for a re-assessment of his needs and also his finances after coming out of hospital.
However- and this applies to everyone - the rules for Pension Credit changed on 2 November. Previously, savings over £6000 reduced the amount of PC you would get. Now the threshold has gone up to £10 000. If you are already on PC you get the new increase automatically.

The threshold has also been increased for Council Tax benefit and Housing benefit ( for those who rent).

Unfortunately those who applied previously for any of these benefits and were turned down will NOT be notified that they may now be eligible. So it is up to people to check and claim.
Put your details into entitled.to.com or ring Pension Credit helpline 0800 99 1234.
Or post on here and I will try to help.