State pensioners face losing vital benefit payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) thanks to a little-known 28-day rule.
Many retirees do not realise that specific rules govern how certain pension-related benefits are paid during prolonged periods of medical treatment.
According to financial experts Pension Bee, the state pension itself remains unaffected regardless of hospital duration, whether recipients receive the old basic or new state pension.
However, several other benefits linked to pension payments face potential reductions or suspension once a hospital stay exceeds 28 days, catching many pensioners off guard during already difficult circumstances.
State pensioners face losing payments from DWP under 28-day rule
| GETTYThe benefits at risk include Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance, and Personal Independence Payments (PIP), all of which may be reduced or halted entirely after the 28-day threshold.
Pension Credit provides crucial income support for those of state pension age earning below a certain weekly amount, paying £238 per week to eligible claimants.
For recipients of the older basic state pension, which reaches a maximum of £184.90 weekly, this top-up represents a substantial portion of their total income.
Those on the new state pension without a complete National Insurance record, who therefore receive less than the full £241.30 weekly amount, can similarly claim Pension Credit to supplement their earnings.
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| GETTYPension Bee explains that Pension Credit comprises two components supporting those whose income falls beneath a specific threshold, encompassing both Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit schemes.
Age UK warns that transfers from hospital to care homes or community hospitals for free short-term intermediate care also count towards the 28-day limit.
The charity added: "If you receive Pension Credit, suspension of these benefits can affect the amount of Pension Credit you receive."
Particularly concerning is the situation for couples where one partner has not yet reached state pension age, as Age UK notes they "may not be able to reclaim Pension Credit" if their award stops during hospitalisation.
The Government emphasises that pensioners must inform the relevant benefits office immediately upon being admitted to hospital for one night or longer.
Failure to report a hospital stay could result in claims being stopped or reduced, according to official guidance.
Age UK advised: "Contact the office that pays your benefits to let them know when you go into hospital and then again when you leave. You'll need to quote the number on your award letter for the benefits you receive."
Those receiving state pension, Pension Credit, or Attendance Allowance should telephone the Pension Service helpline to report their admission and subsequent discharge.