DWP Issues Urgent Warning to Pensioners Traveling Abroad or Day Trips
The DWP warns pensioners to report any travel outside the UK to avoid losing benefits
Pensioners, UK, DWP, Pension Credit, Benefits, Travel
Birmingham: The Department for Work and Pensions is raising a red flag for anyone on benefits thinking about taking a holiday. With spring and summer around the corner, many folks are planning trips, and the DWP wants to make sure everyone knows the rules.
Here’s the deal: if you’re leaving Great Britain, even for a quick trip, you need to let them know. This includes visits to places like Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands. People have been asking, “Can I still get my Pension Credit if I leave?” The DWP says you might be able to keep it for up to four weeks while you’re away, and even eight weeks if it’s related to a death.
They also mentioned that if you’re going away for medical treatment or recovery, you could get Pension Credit for up to 26 weeks. But remember, you have to inform them before you travel, no matter how short the trip is, even if it’s just to Northern Ireland or the Channel Islands.
Pension Credit is designed to help those over the State Pension age, and it has two parts: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit. A lot of people qualify for one or both, but it’s estimated that around 760,000 eligible households don’t even claim it.
Guarantee Credit gives a weekly income boost to ensure you hit a minimum level, while Savings Credit offers extra help for those who’ve saved for retirement. So, if you’re one of the 2.2 million households that qualify, make sure you’re getting what you’re entitled to!