|
From today, pensioners can call one phone number to claim
three key benefits, making it even easier for them to get
the money they are entitled to.
James Plaskitt, Minister for Benefits launched the new
process and urged pensioners to claim Pension Credit, Housing
Benefit and Council Tax Benefit in one simple phone call.
Mr Plaskitt said:
"We are committed to making it as easy as possible for
pensioners to get the benefits they are entitled to.
That
is why we have already started calling people on Pension
Credit to make sure they are also claiming their Housing
and Council Tax Benefits.
The results have been very positive,
with people receiving on average up to £700 back
from the cost of their Council Tax bills.
"Now we are making this service available to new Pension
Credit customers.
If someone calls to claim Pension Credit,
they will be helped to claim Housing and Council Tax Benefit
at the same time. Some customers could receive substantial
arrears.
"It is a short and straightforward process as the forms
are filled in for customers over the phone.
As we have
made the process so much shorter, for example a three page
form instead of a 26 page form to claim Council Tax Benefit,
pensioners could find themselves significantly better off."
The Department for Work and Pensions is working closely
with Local Authorities to introduce the new claim process
and raise awareness of Housing Benefit and Council Tax
Benefit entitlement amongst Pension Credit customers.
The Pension Credit Application Line is 0800 99 1234 |
