MONEY saving expert Martin Lewis has joined the UK Government in urging people to check if they are entitled to pension credit.

The payments are worth an average of £3500 a year and can also open access to other benefits and payments.

Pension credit is designed to help with daily living costs for people over state pension age and on a low income.

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It tops up a person’s income to a minimum of £201.05 per week for single pensioners and to £306.85 for couples.

The award can be higher if the person has a disability or caring responsibilities.

The Government believes there are many people, up to one million, who could be getting the extra cash but are not aware they are eligible.

Lewis said even a small amount of pension credit can be worth hundreds of pounds more a year.

The MoneySavingExpert founder said: “It’s a tragedy that up to a million low-income pensioners who’ve paid into the system for years are missing out on what can be a crucial financial top-up.

“And even those only due thruppence from it should still claim as pension credit is the key gateway benefit that opens the door to many other entitlements – including the remaining £600 cost-of-living support, council tax reductions, free TV licences (if aged over 75) dental and optical support and more.

“Any single pensioner earning under roughly £220 a week, or pension couple earning under £320 should check online or call the pension credit helpline just in case you may be due.”

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Laura Trott, pensions minister, 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 £3500 per year.”