Pension Credit Claims Rise 145% Amid Changes

Following the UK government's decision to means test the Winter Fuel Payment, applications for Pension Credit have surged by nearly 150%, with 150,000 claims submitted in the past 16 weeks. However, over half of these claims have been rejected, with only 42,500 approved, highlighting a significant backlog and increased scrutiny on the application process. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has acknowledged the rise in claims, processing more than 51% of submissions, but also noted that refusals have nearly doubled. The recent cold weather has prompted urgency for pensioners to apply before the December 21 deadline to receive backdated payments. Experts urge eligible pensioners to apply as many remain unaware of their entitlement, with estimates suggesting around 880,000 individuals are missing out on benefits. The changes have ignited debates on the adequacy of support for low-income retirees in the face of rising living costs.