Is debt advice really free?

Yes, with the charities and services listed above. They are funded so you do not have to pay. If a company asks for an up-front fee for advice, stop and check them against the Financial Conduct Authority's register first.

Will getting debt advice affect my credit score?

Talking to an adviser does not affect your credit file. Some solutions, such as a debt management plan or IVA, can be recorded on it. An adviser will explain the effects before you choose.

Will the adviser judge me?

No. Debt advisers help people from all walks of life, and what you tell them is confidential. Many people get into debt after a job loss, illness, relationship breakdown or a rise in living costs.

Does Sterlingsum give debt advice?

No. Sterlingsum is an information site and is not authorised to give debt advice. We link to organisations that are. We do not receive payment from any of the services listed on this page.

Pension Credit explained

Who can claim, how much it tops your income up to and why it is worth checking.

The short answer

Pension Credit tops up the income of people who have reached State Pension age and live in England, Scotland or Wales. It brings your weekly income up to £238 for a single person or £363.25 for a couple. It is often unclaimed, and getting it can unlock other help.

Who can get it

You live in England, Scotland or Wales and have reached State Pension age.
If you have a partner, you must include them in the claim. You can qualify if both of you have reached State Pension age, or if one of you gets Housing Benefit for people over State Pension age.
Your income is below the weekly amounts above, or you may still qualify on a higher income if you have a disability, caring responsibilities, housing costs or some savings.

What counts as income

State Pension, other pensions, earnings and most social security benefits count as income. Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, Housing Benefit and the Winter Fuel Payment do not.

Savings

Savings of £10,000 or less do not affect Pension Credit.
Above £10,000, every £500 counts as £1 of weekly income.

Why it matters

Pension Credit can open the door to other support, such as help with energy bills, see the Warm Home Discount, and help with Council Tax. If you think you might qualify, applying is free, and you can ask Citizens Advice or Age UK for help.

Where to learn more

This guide is for information only and is not benefits or financial advice. Rules and amounts can change, so check the official pages before you rely on them.