Pensioners urged to claim winter windfalls

Labour parliamentary spokesman Jamie Bolden helped launch a new awareness
campaign today to save pensioners across Broxbourne from missing out on an
average £426 towards their council tax bills.

Council Tax Benefit is paid as a rebate on the council tax bill. It is
administered by local councils on behalf of the Department for Work and
Pensions. Claim forms are available from Broxbourne Council.

Mr Bolden, who lives in Broxbourne, said:

"Four in ten pensioners fail to apply for Council Tax Benefit. That is
around £8 a week each that they could be doing so many other things with to
improve the quality of their everyday lives.

"Some pensioners on low incomes are missing out on a 100 per cent council
tax rebate. On top of this, people may even be due arrears back to last
January, bringing a possible extra cash windfall.

"Some pensioners may mistakenly believe that they might not qualify for a
council tax rebate. If you are in doubt whether you are eligible for Council
Tax Benefit, check by contacting the council on 01992 785503.

"Claiming is easier than ever before. Council Tax Benefit is paid on top of
any Pension Credit and Winter Fuel Payments so there is nothing to lose."

Report filed 28/01/2005

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