Following cuts to Winter Fuel Payments, pensioners are urged to see if they can claim an extra £2,000 towards energy bills, as well as a yearly £3,900 boost.
British Gas is writing to approximately two million customers of pension age, encouraging them to claim Pension Credit if eligible.
The energy company said it is “our responsibility” to provide support on top of Government help, which will reach an estimated 10 million fewer people this year as a result of the Winter Fuel Payment cuts.
The company has reopened its annual winter scheme, which provides financial support to those in need. This year, British Gas has increased its commitment by allocating an additional £40million towards measures such as matching debt repayments and support grants.
Chris O’Shea, chief executive of Centrica, British Gas’s parent company, emphasised the importance of this initiative. He said: “While some cost-of-living pressures had eased, the crisis is far from over for many households.”
O’Shea added: “We are committed to ensuring that all pensioners are fully informed about their eligibility for pension credit, which can make a significant difference in their financial wellbeing.”
As part of its enhanced support package, British Gas has increased the maximum grant available to customers from £1,500 to £2,000.
This significant boost aims to provide more substantial assistance to those facing financial hardship during the colder months.
The company’s proactive approach aligns with recent discussions between energy suppliers and Labour’s energy consumers minister, Miatta Fahnbulleh.
In August, Fahnbulleh held talks with providers, including British Gas, seeking their help in alerting customers to available bill support.
Emma Reynolds, Minister for pensions has also urged pensioners to check and see if they can claim the DWP benefit.
She said: “Pension credit is a vital benefit. Not only is it worth £3,900 a year on average, but it also acts as a gateway to other benefits.
“This means even just one pound could passport pensioners to extra help including help with council tax, housing benefit and the Winter Fuel Payment.
“I support British Gas’ campaign to ensure all those who could be eligible are getting this help and urge all pensioners, and their friends and family, to check to see if they or their loved ones could be getting additional support via our online calculator.”
To be eligible for Guarantee Pension Credit, individuals must be of State Pension age (currently 66). Their weekly income should be less than £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple.
For Savings Credit, applicants must have reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016 or have a partner who did so. They need qualifying income of at least £189.80 per week for singles or £301.22 for couples.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is taking proactive steps to increase uptake. They plan to contact pensioners receiving Housing Benefit who may be eligible for Pension Credit but are not currently claiming it.
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Pensioners can check their eligibility using the online Pension Credit calculator on Gov.uk. Alternatively, they can contact the Pension Credit helpline directly on 0800 99 1234.
Claims can be backdated for up to three months. Applicants will need their National Insurance number, income and savings information, and bank account details when applying.