ESA to pension gap

marymac65

Hi, I am on income related esa. This stops on 18/10/21 when I turn 66y. However my pension will not be paid until 4xweeks later, so I am worried about how I will live those 4x weeks and also concerned housing benefit will not pay those 4x weeks rent.

calcotti

Housing Benefit should continue although local authority will need to review the award to take account of your changed income.
Are you single or part of a couple?

atlas47

Hi @marymac65

A very warm welcome.

It’s time to get all of your ducks, lined up in a row.

I would suggest, in the first instance you should seek a State Pension Forecast. Which is simple to do by calling tel: 0800 731 0175 ( you will need your NI number to hand).

You will receive the forecast about two weeks later.

You will receive a letter about your state pension payment date, about 3 months prior to your retirement age. The DWP will offer you the opportunity of deferring this date, to some time in the future. Unless you are living in an off shore tax haven, I would decline this offer.

You then decide the frequently you wish to have your pension paid,  weekly, two weeks or monthly.

I would strongly recommend that you speak to Age UK helpline tel: 0800 055 6112, about what other benefits, might be available, such as Pension Credit/Savings Credit.

Please keep us informed, so we can assist you further.

calcotti

atlas47 said:

.. The DWP will offer you the opportunity of deferring this date, to some time in the future. ..

To be clear the pension has to be claimed, so is deferred by default if not claimed.

atlas47 said:

I would strongly recommend that you speak to Age UK helpline tel: 0800 055 6112, about what other benefits, might be available, such as Pension Credit/Savings Credit.

Savings Pension Credit no longer exists for people reaching pension age since 6th April 2016.