07 June 2004 - 3 million people receiving Pension Credit
New figures out today show that over 3 million people are receiving Pension Credit.
The figures, published by the Department for Work and Pensions, confirm that as of the end of May there are now 3.03 million individuals (2.5 million households) being paid Pension Credit, including 67,000 new people (51,000 households) in the last month. Of that 3 million, over 2 million are women.
The average weekly award was £42.42 and of those receiving Pension Credit, 2.22 million individuals (1.83 million households) are now getting more money than was previously the case under the old Minimum Income Guarantee.
Pension Credit applications can be made via the freephone Pension Credit application line on 0800 99 1234. There is a textphone service for those who have hearing difficulties on 0800 169 0133. Successful claims can be backdated twelve months, or to the date of entitlement if that is later.
A Pension Credit calculator is also available on the Pension Service Website where people can get an estimate of any possible Pension Credit award at http://www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/pensioncredit/calculator/home.asp
Notes for editors
- Pension Credit replaced the Minimum Income Guarantee (MIG) and has been payable since October 6th 2003.
- The Pension Credit application line is open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 1pm on Saturday.
- Pension Credit guarantees everyone aged 60 and over an income of at least £105.45 for single people and £160.95 for couples.
- Pensioner households who were not receiving MIG as at April 2003 have been contacted through a personalised letter inviting the customer to make an application.
- There are arrangements in place to allow payments to be backdated for up to 12 months or from the date of entitlement if that is later.
- Extra amounts will be added for those who have relevant housing costs, severe disabilities or caring responsibilities
Press office media enquiries: please contact Stewart Todd - 020 7238 0643
Press office: 020 7238 0866
Out of hours: 07659 108 883
Public enquiries: 020 7712 2171
Website: www.dwp.gov.uk