British Gas sending important letters to state pensioners

Energy giant British Gas is contacting pensioners to let them know how they can get extra money. The company said it would be reaching out to older low-income customers to ensure they are aware of Pension Credit.

Hundreds of thousands of pensioners don't claim Pension Credit despite being eligible for it. As well as topping up income, it crucially also qualifies people for Winter Fuel Payments, worth up to £300.

The Government has launched an awareness drive in a bid to ensure as many people check their eligibility as possible. British Gas said it would also be doing its bit to inform customers.

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Pensioners have until December to be signed up to Pension Credit and ensure they receive Winter Fuel Payments. If they don't, they will miss out on up to £300 which could have been theirs.

It comes after the winter support payments were made means tested, with Pension Credit a key qualifying benefit. Millions will no longer get the payments this year. Even if Pension Credit is only worth a few extra pounds, it will open up access to the Winter Fuel Payment boost.

Letters from British Gas should be arriving to customers over the coming weeks. The energy firm said it was its "responsibility" to ensure customers were fully informed.

Chris O'Shea, chief executive of British Gas' parent firm Centrica, said: "At the end of each week or month there will be those that have little, if any, money left after paying for life's essentials. 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."