The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has started contacting selected Pension Credit claimants as part of new case reviews to check they are receiving the correct amount of financial support.
People chosen for a review may be asked to provide additional information about their circumstances, including recent bank statements. However, the DWP has stressed that being selected does not mean someone has done anything wrong.
What the reviews involve
The department confirmed the reviews in its latest Touchbase newsletter, which provides information about changes to benefits and services. It said: "DWP has started contacting selected customers as part of Pension Credit case reviews to help make sure they are receiving the correct amount of Pension Credit."
It added: "As part of the reviews, some customers may be asked for additional information, such as recent bank statements. Being selected for a review does not mean the customer has done anything wrong."
If a review finds that someone's Pension Credit award needs to change, the DWP said it will explain the outcome and what happens next. The department added that it aims to treat claimants "fairly and sensitively" throughout the process.
How to respond and get support
People selected for a case review should follow the instructions provided by the DWP and supply any additional information requested. Claimants who need support after being contacted about a review can call the DWP Pension Credit helpline on 0800 731 0469.
If someone's award needs to be changed following the review, they will be told about the outcome and the next steps.
Pension Credit explained
Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit which provides additional financial support to people who have reached State Pension age and are on a low income. It is separate from the State Pension and can be worth thousands of pounds a year.
Pension Credit tops up weekly income to a minimum level through Guarantee Credit, while some people who reached State Pension age before April 6, 2016 may also qualify for Savings Credit. The amount someone receives can be affected by their income, savings and personal circumstances.
When you apply for Pension Credit your income is calculated. If you have a partner, your income is calculated together. Pension Credit tops up your weekly income to £238.00 if you're single, and your joint weekly income to £363.25 if you have a partner. If your income is higher, you might still be eligible for Pension Credit if you have a disability, you care for someone, you have savings or you have housing costs.
Your income includes State Pension, other pensions, earnings from employment and self-employment, and most social security benefits such as Carer's Allowance. Not all benefits are counted as income, including Adult Disability Payment, Attendance Allowance, DWP Christmas Bonus, Child Benefit, Disability Living Allowance, Pension Age Disability Payment, Personal Independence Payment, social fund payments like Winter Fuel Allowance, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction.
If you have £10,000 or less in savings and investments this will not affect your Pension Credit. If you have more than £10,000, every £500 over £10,000 counts as £1 income a week. For example, if you have £11,000 in savings, this counts as £2 income a week.
People receiving Pension Credit should report relevant changes in their circumstances to the DWP as these could affect how much they are entitled to receive. Full details on how to report a change in circumstances can be found on GOV.UK.
