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Martin Lewis has issued vital advice to ensure people make the most of their pension.

The money expert issued a call to 800,000 people over State Pension age on a low income.

They could be owed a huge income boost through the means of a UK Government gateway benefit.

An average top-up could be worth £3,500 each year.

Mr Lewis urged people to check the Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK online or to call the Pension Credit helpline directly on 0800 99 1234 to find out if they are eligible.

He said it was a ‘national tragedy’ that people didn’t realise the money they were entitled to.

He told viewers: ‘If you’re getting your State Pension and it’s not the full State Pension, and you’re on a low income then please check whether you are one of 800,000 people in the UK missing out on Pension Credit.

‘This is really a bit of a national tragedy because these are some of the poorest people in the country who have been paying into the system for years and they are not getting the top-up to their State Pension that they are entitled to.

‘My rough rule of thumb – if you’re a single pensioner with total income of under £220 a week or a couple, both of State Pension age, with a total income of under £320 a week then you should check.

‘I’m not saying you will get it, I’m just saying it’s worth checking.’

Pension Credit gives people extra money to help with their living costs if they are over State Pension age and on a low income.

Pension Credit can also provide access to a range of other benefits such as help with housing costs, council tax, heating bills and for those aged 75 or over, a free TV licence.

He added: ‘Getting Pension Credit opens up a massive door of other entitlements to you so even if the Pension Credit isn’t worth much, you really want to get it.”

The Department for Work and Pensions has launched ‘Pension Credit Week of Action’ which aims to raise awareness of the benefit available.

Although take up of Pension Credit is at the highest level since 2010, there are still too many people missing out.

Despite common misconceptions, people can be entitled even if they own their own homes, have savings or receive a small occupational pension.

Almost half of the people who currently receive Pension Credit own their own homes.

Minister for Pensions Laura Trott MBE said: ‘We recognise the challenges some pensioners will be facing with the cost of living which is why, alongside driving down inflation, promoting Pension Credit is a priority.

‘During the Week of Action, we will be out and about spreading the word – and you can help too. Speak to your older loved ones about Pension Credit and get them to check if they could be eligible for this vital extra support, worth an average of £3,500 per year.’

It is easy to claim. People just need to make one simple, free phone call (0800 99 1234), claim online or fill out a paper claim form, details of which can all be found on GOV.UK.   

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