Britain's pensioners 'should pick up money owed promptly'

Older people in the UK need to act quickly in order to get the money they are owed in pension credit, it has been claimed.

According to statistics from Citizens Advice, four in ten pensioners are entitled to top-up credits in addition to the basic £87.50 per week.

The body added that the winter fuel payment is also being missed by some and if people are owed it they should check before March 31st.

Citizens Advice director of policy Teresa Perchard said that "red tape" is obstructing a number of people who are entitled to extra cash.

"Too many pensioners are missing out on money that is rightfully theirs. Many don't know about things like council tax benefit, or think they won't qualify for help. Others are put off claiming by red tape," said the official.

Currently men over the age of 65 and women over the age of 60 are allowed to claim basic pensions, although this will be equalised to 65 years of age by 2020.

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