County Benefits Officer, Social Services (Adults), Social Services, Kent County Council Member since 10th Feb 2004
Housing Costs with Pension Credit Sat 15-Apr-06 01:42 PM
Client is 87 in sheltered rented flat. Never been entitled to Pension Credit as income too high and has savings. Wants to buy a slightly better sheltered flat but will need to get a mortgage for half the cost. Once done this her savings will be under £6000 but she will still not qualify for Pension Credit unless housing costs are included. Schedule 2, para 5 (2) and (4) are relevant here. She wont be taking the loan out whilst on Pension Credit and has never had a previous period on Pension Credit so is not between two periods separated by less than 26 weeks. Therefore can these housing costs be included or should she wait for 26 weeks before applying? I am nervous about what to advise.