Enjoy the benefits of getting older

Many older people could improve their standard of living by claiming money they are entitled to.

Pension Credit

Nearly half of all older people are entitled to Pension Credit, which was introduced in October 2003. Many people who could be getting this extra money have not yet made a claim. The Pension Credit has two parts:

· The guarantee credit is for people aged 60 and over which should ensure that all single people have an income of at least £114.05 and couples at least £174.05 a week (from April 2006). These levels may be higher if you are severely disabled or a carer.

· The savings credit of up to £17.88 for a single person or £23.58 for a couple for people 65 and over with modest incomes who have made savings for retirement, for example through an occupational pension.

You may get guarantee credit, savings credit or both.

Council Tax Benefit and Housing Benefit

Over recent years many older people have been facing large increases in their council tax bills, yet over a million older people who could reduce their bills by claiming Council Tax Benefit and Housing Benefit are not doing so.

The main points are:

· If you receive the guarantee part of Pension Credit, you may be entitled to full Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit.

· If you don't get the guarantee credit, but have no more than £16,000 in savings, you may still get some Council Tax Benefit or Housing Benefit.

· If you live alone, make sure that you are getting 25% discount. (. Other discounts may apply, for example, to people who are severely mentally

impaired.

· The disability reduction scheme can reduce your bill if your home has features that are necessary for a disabled person living there.

State Pension

Although most people are entitled to a pension, you have to make a claim to receive it. If you have not been contacted about claiming your state pension by 3 months before you are due to reach pension age, ring the Pension Service on 0845 300 1084.