Pensioners

I am in receipt of guarantee pension credit and have been told by my friends that I can claim council tax benefit. I am not sure that this is correct because I have savings.

If you are getting guarantee credit you will automatically qualify for council tax benefit. There is no capital limit in these circumstances.

How is my capital treated then?

Although there is no upper limit on capital, anything you have over £6,000 is calculated as having notional interest and therefore derives an income. An assumption of income is made of £1 for every £500 over £6,000.

If for example you had £30,000 capital the tariff income would be £48. This amount would be added to your other income and used in the calculation for council tax benefit. In effect the capital rules are now more generous and so more pensioners should be able to get help.

I am often required to produce proof of my age in order to take advantage of certain concessionary schemes. I have heard of a citizens card. How do I get one?

You can get a card showing that you are entitled to retirement pension and therefore a pensioner by writing to Central Pensions Branch, Department for Work and Pension, Newcastle upon Type NE98 1YX.

If you are not a pensioner you can obtain a citizens card. This however is not free. You need to contact Citizencard, P.O. Box 1221, Newcastle under Lyme ST5 1UF. Tel: 0870 240 1221. You can also find application forms is newsagents and off licences.

Is it true that I can get an annual health check? I am 78 years old.

Yes. If you are over 75 years of age you can have a health check either at your GP surgery or in your own home. You should expect as a minimum:-

Measurement of your height, weight and blood pressure
A urine test
Enquiries about your lifestyle eg. alcohol consumption, exercise etc.

This check will also include assessment of your mobility, mental health, medication and general health.

How do I obtain a message from the Queen?

The Queen can send a message to British Citizens for the 100th, 105th and subsequent birthdays.

Also a 60th, 65th and 70th wedding anniversary.

You can make an application directly to Buckingham Palace at The Anniversaries Office, Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA. Tel: 020 79304832

Last updated: February 22, 2007