I am 61 and have recently split from my husband. I am at present recieving pension and he is getting pension credit for both of us.

My question is, What will I be entitled to as a single person now on my own and will I get housing benefit as I need to find a home for my self

thanks for looking

Frostypug,

Apply for pension credit in you own rite. Then HMRC will reduce the payment to your ex and apply payments to you. Once you find somewher to live and you move in, you can then apply for H/B and C.T.B. Both of which will be means tested. There is one thing to remember with benefits YOU CANNOT BE STOPPED FOR APPLYING FOR ANY BENEFIT. Meeting the qualifying rules is a different matter. But apply for anything just in case. If you ring a benefit line and they tell you you wont get a particular benefit, tell them that is not their decision to make and that you want the forms. A decision maker will later make the decision on your eligibility or otherwise.

Hope this helps - Cheers - Scousegeezer.

In order to claim Pension Credit, you need to get in touch with the Pension Service. Pension Credit is administed by DWP, not HMRC - it's not like "tax credits", and is based on the Income Support System.

The number for Pension Credit is 0800 99 1234

website: The Pension Service

If you qualify for Guaranteed Pension Credit you will get 100% housing and council tax benefit which is one problem out of the way.

Thankyou very much for that answer. Is there a cap to the rent they will pay because around here you won't get anything under £450 per month and this is not a rich area.

Just keep the property you want to rent realistic - a 3 bedroom detached house is bigger than you need as a single person. Have you asked Age Concern their thoughts on this matter - or try the housing associations or even your council