Older people in Bolton missing $10.09m in pension credits

This means 4,017 households across the borough are currently missing out on a benefit that can make pensioners $42.89 a week better off, with some able to claim for higher amounts

Older people in Bolton are missing out on nearly £8m ($10.09m) worth of unpaid pension top ups, according to one of the region’s biggest housing groups.

This means that an estimated 4,017 households across the borough are currently missing out on a benefit that can make pensioners £34 ($42.89) a week better off, with some able to claim for higher amounts.

With the cost-of-living crisis continuing to bite, Bolton at Home has urged older people who are struggling with money to come forward and see if they are eligible.

Bolton at Home head of revenue services Craig Tyldesley said: We’re working very closely with the other Greater Manchester Housing Providers on this important issue.

The figures show us that close to £8 million ($10.09m) in pension credit is unclaimed across Bolton, he said. This is money that people in certain circumstances are entitled to and that can really help them meet the cost of living, particularly as it provides a pathway to other important benefits.

We would urge customers to contact us if they are struggling financially and, if needed, to seek the support of family and friends in finding out more about their eligibility for pension credit and other benefits, he said.

Bolton at Home has now joined with the city region’s other housing providers and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority in a campaign encouraging people to check with older friends and family members to see if they missing out.

Just under 36,000 households all over Greater Manchester are feared to be missing out.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said: With so much pressure on household finances, it’s vital that older people are getting all the money they are entitled to.

A third of those eligible for pension credit in Greater Manchester aren’t claiming, with many missing out on income from attendance allowance and housing benefit too, he said.

He said: If you own your own home or have a private pension you could still be eligible, so please take a moment now and check, for yourself or your loved ones.