Pensions
The Pensions, Disability and Carers Service is part of the Department of Work and Pensions (“DWP”) and can deal with enquiries from people over 50 years of age relating to their entitlements in retirement, i.e. State Pension, Pension Credit etc and all people who have a disability or are a carer or being cared for.
If you need advice and wish to speak to them direct or would like assistance in claiming your benefit entitlements you can arrange an appointment to see a Pension Officer at Burgess Hill Town Council Help Point, every Wednesday, 10am – 1pm (by appointment only). To make an appointment please contact the Help Point either by telephone 01444 247726 or call into the offices at 96 Church Walk, Burgess Hill.
Alternatively contact the Pensions, Disability and Carers Service direct on 0845 606 0265. The Textphone service for customers with speech or hearing difficulties is 0845 6060 285. You will need to quote your name, postcode and National Insurance Number.
You can also visit their website www.direct.gov.uk.
Other Useful Contacts:
State Pension Claim Line – telephone 0800 731 7898
Benefit Enquiry Line (New Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Carers Allowance Claims) – telephone 0800 88 22 00
Pension Credit Claim Line – telephone 0800 99 1234
Winter Fuel Payment – telephone 0845 915 1515
Age UK Pensions Advice Line - freephone 0800 169 6565, www.ageuk.org.uk
THE PENSION TRACING SERVICE
The Pension Service assumed responsibility for the Pension Tracing Service on 6 April 2005. This FREE service allows individuals, or their representatives, to trace any unclaimed or "lost" occupational and personal pensions. You can contact the Pension Tracing Service on 0845 6002 537, textphone 0845 3000 169 or visit the Direct Gov website.
PENSIONS MIS-SOLD
The Regulated Financial Services Authority (FSA) aims to maintain efficient, orderly and clean financial markets and help retail consumers achieve a fair deal. For further information telephone the Helpline 0845 606 1234 (open Monday - Friday 8am - 6pm) or visit their website www.fsa.gov.uk.
VETERANS HOTLINE
The Veterans Agency administers the War Pension Scheme in partnership with many other government departments such as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Department of Constitutional Affairs (DCA), who assist us when processing claims and appeals. It also delivers welfare services in partnership with ex-Service and other voluntary organisations.
For further information contact the Veterans Agency on 0800 169 2277 or visit www.veterans-uk.info.
Men and women who served in HM Armed Forces before and/or during World War II are entitled to a Veterans badge.