Pensioners urged to check for unclaimed benefits (From Wimbledon Guardian)

Merton pensioners urged to check for unclaimed benefits

4:55pm Monday 28th January 2013 in News

Thousands of pensioners in Merton could be missing out on an extra £35 a week, £1,800 a year,  according to the Mayor of London.

As part of the Know Your Rights Campaign, pensioners are being urged to call Age UK or their local Citizen’s Advice Bureau to check their benefits as it is believed many could be unaware of their entitlements.

Carers are also being urged to contact the charity after it was revealed that an estimated 30,0000 carers across the capital could be missing out on up to £58.45 a week in carer’s allowances.

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said: "As temperatures plummet many households face extra pressure on their budgets as their fuel bills increase.

"I would urge pensioners to pick up the phone and make one simple call to check they are receiving all the financial support they are entitled to."

If your pension is less than £142 a week, or if your joint pension is less than £217 a week, you could be entitled to additional pension credits and discounts of up to £130 a year in housing benefit and council tax benefit.

For more information visit london.gov.uk/know-your-rights, call Age UK on 0800 169 6565, or carers can call the Carers Trust on 0844 800 4361.