Moneysource1

• Claiming Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to additional help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills
• Comes as Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary write to Local Authorities to boost uptake of pension credit in their local areas

The Department for Work and Pensions is today urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit in order to secure this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

It comes as the government has had to make some difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy due to the dire state of the public finances, with the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – set to be means-tested and delivered to those on Pension Credit to ensure it is targeted towards those in most need.

Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments, but the government is determined to boost take-up of Pension Credit to ensure low-income pensioners continue to get this help.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary are writing to Local Authorities and will join forces with them, older peoples’ charities, and other groups this September for its annual Pension Credit Week of Action.

The government’s Pension Credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December, the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

The £22 billion black hole in the public finances we have inherited has required us to take difficult decisions, but I am determined to ensure low-income pensioners are supported.

That’s why I urge any pensioner, or their loved ones, to check if they could get Pension Credit.

This government remains completely committed to pensioners which is why we’re protecting the income of over 12 million pensioners through the Triple Lock.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

The dire state of the public finances we inherited from the previous government means we’ve had to make some very difficult decisions.

Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains, which is why we are maintaining the triple lock.

We want pensioners to get the support they are entitled to. That’s why I urge all pensioners to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Everyone has paid the price for over a decade of energy insecurity, which is why we are getting on with delivering clean power by 2030, alongside our ambitious Warm Homes Plan.

It is imperative that those eligible get the support they need this winter, which is why the government will do everything it can to roll out Pension Credit, making sure as many people as possible qualify for the up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

During the Week of Action, set to commence in September, the DWP and its partners will be tackling some of the myths that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving Pension Credit.

This work builds on last year’s Invitation to claim pilots, where letters and leaflets were targeted at households already in receipt of Housing Benefit, but not claiming Pension Credit in ten local authorities.

This work comes alongside wider plans to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock, improving energy security and keeping energy bills low through the Warm Homes Plan and cutting NHS waiting lists.

Over the next five years over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension increase by thousands of pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

And the Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. This government’s long-term plan will protect billpayers permanently and reduce fuel poverty.

Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they could be eligible. It is worth on average £3,900 a year and can also open doors to further financial help, such as housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

And, pensioners who own their own home or have savings or a private pension income could still be eligible – with DWP’s online calculator able to work out how much an individual could get.

Further Information

• Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
  • On the How to Claim page
  • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
  • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
  • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
• The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
• We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
• People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA and Universal Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
• The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
• 21 December is the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
• Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
• Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

The post Are you entitled to unclaimed pension credit? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-entitled-to-unclaimed-pension-credit

• Claiming Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to additional help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills
• Comes as Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary write to Local Authorities to boost uptake of pension credit in their local areas

The Department for Work and Pensions is today urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit in order to secure this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

It comes as the government has had to make some difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy due to the dire state of the public finances, with the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – set to be means-tested and delivered to those on Pension Credit to ensure it is targeted towards those in most need.

Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments, but the government is determined to boost take-up of Pension Credit to ensure low-income pensioners continue to get this help.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary are writing to Local Authorities and will join forces with them, older peoples’ charities, and other groups this September for its annual Pension Credit Week of Action.

The government’s Pension Credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December, the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

The £22 billion black hole in the public finances we have inherited has required us to take difficult decisions, but I am determined to ensure low-income pensioners are supported.

That’s why I urge any pensioner, or their loved ones, to check if they could get Pension Credit.

This government remains completely committed to pensioners which is why we’re protecting the income of over 12 million pensioners through the Triple Lock.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

The dire state of the public finances we inherited from the previous government means we’ve had to make some very difficult decisions.

Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains, which is why we are maintaining the triple lock.

We want pensioners to get the support they are entitled to. That’s why I urge all pensioners to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Everyone has paid the price for over a decade of energy insecurity, which is why we are getting on with delivering clean power by 2030, alongside our ambitious Warm Homes Plan.

It is imperative that those eligible get the support they need this winter, which is why the government will do everything it can to roll out Pension Credit, making sure as many people as possible qualify for the up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

During the Week of Action, set to commence in September, the DWP and its partners will be tackling some of the myths that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving Pension Credit.

This work builds on last year’s Invitation to claim pilots, where letters and leaflets were targeted at households already in receipt of Housing Benefit, but not claiming Pension Credit in ten local authorities.

This work comes alongside wider plans to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock, improving energy security and keeping energy bills low through the Warm Homes Plan and cutting NHS waiting lists.

Over the next five years over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension increase by thousands of pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

And the Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. This government’s long-term plan will protect billpayers permanently and reduce fuel poverty.

Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they could be eligible. It is worth on average £3,900 a year and can also open doors to further financial help, such as housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

And, pensioners who own their own home or have savings or a private pension income could still be eligible – with DWP’s online calculator able to work out how much an individual could get.

Further Information

• Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
  • On the How to Claim page
  • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
  • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
  • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
• The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
• We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
• People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA and Universal Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
• The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
• 21 December is the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
• Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
• Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

The post Are you entitled to unclaimed pension credit? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-entitled-to-unclaimed-pension-credit

Google’s August 2024 core update is now done rolling out, a Google spokesperson told us. It started on August 15, 2024 and completed 19 days later on September 3, 2024. This update caused a lot of ranking movement and changes to the overall Google Search results.

As we said before, this update is not just a normal core update. The August 2024 core update took into account the feedback Google heard since the September 2023 helpful content update that seemed to have a negative impact on many small and independent publishers.

What we saw. In fact, we saw some movement for the first time with some (not all) sites hit by that update. I recent poll I ran showed that most who took the poll were negatively impacted by the last core update:

• 44% said My Rankings/Traffic Are Down (total votes 1,583)
• 27% said My Rankings/Traffic Are Up (total votes 993)
• 29% said No Change (total votes 1,038)

Overall, it seems like while we saw some recoveries from the September helpful content in 2023, that was only for a few sites and limited recoveries. Most sites did not see significant or meaningful recoveries, from what we can tell. And even more sites saw even more declines or just stayed the same.

Ranking bug. The first four or so days of the August core update, we also had a big search ranking bug that was fixed 4 days later. So, you should disregard any movement you saw during those first four days or so. You should compare the rankings and traffic you have seen from Google this week, going forward, compare to the weeks prior to the release of the August core update.

What Google said about the August core update. John Mueller, Search Advocate at Google, wrote when the update was originally released.

• “Today, we launched our August 2024 core update to Google Search. This update is designed to continue our work to improve the quality of our search results by showing more content that people find genuinely useful and less content that feels like it was made just to perform well on Search.”

Google said this update aims to promote useful content from small and independent publishers, after Google listened to feedback it received since the release of the March 2024 core update. Mueller added:

• “This latest update takes into account the feedback we’ve heard from some creators and others over the past few months. As always, we aim to connect people with a range of high quality sites, including ‘small’ or ‘“’independent’ sites that are creating useful, original content on relevant searches. This is an area we’ll continue to address in future updates.”

This August 2024 core update “aims to better capture improvements that sites may have made, so we can continue to surface the best of the web,” Mueller added.

Guidance updated. Google posted several updates to its help page about core updates, including more in-depth guidance for those who may see changes after an update.

Previous core updates. The previous core update – the March 2024 core update – was the largest core update, according to Google. It started March 5 and completed 45 days later on April 19.

Here’s a timeline and our coverage of recent core updates:

• The March 2024 core update was on March 5th and ended on April 19.
• The November 2023 core update was on November 2nd and ended on November 28.
• The October 2023 core update was on October 5th and ended on October 19
• The August 2023 core update was on August 22nd and ended on September 7.
• The March 2023 core update was on March 15th and ended on March 28th.
• The September 2022 broad core update was less impactful than previous core updates and finished on Sept. 26.
• The May 2022 broad core update was a significant and fast update.
• The November 2021 core update 
• The July 2021 core update.
• The June 2021 core update, which was slow to roll out but a big one.

What to do if you are hit. Google has given advice on what to consider if you are negatively impacted by a core update in the past. Google has not really given much new advice here.

• There aren’t specific actions to take to recover. A negative rankings impact may not signal anything is wrong with your pages.
• Google has offered a list of questions to consider if your site is hit by a core update.
• Google said you can see a bit of a recovery between core updates but the biggest change would be after another core update.

In short, write helpful content for people and not to rank in search engines.

• “There’s nothing new or special that creators need to do for this update as long as they’ve been making satisfying content meant for people. For those that might not be ranking as well, we strongly encourage reading our creating helpful, reliable, people-first content help page,” Google said previously.

Why we care. By now, you should probably see the trend of this update and how it may have affected your website. If you noticed improvements, then great – if not, then maybe you have more work to do so Google will deem your site helpful enough to rank better in the Google search results.

Google releases core update every few to several months, so you should always continue to work on improving your site and the content on your site. Future updates may benefit your site’s ranking and Google traffic – so always be working on improvements – not just for Google Search but also for your website users.

Google did tell us there won’t be a feedback form for this update.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-august-2024-core-update-rollout-is-now-complete-446225

• Claiming Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to additional help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills
• Comes as Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary write to Local Authorities to boost uptake of pension credit in their local areas

The Department for Work and Pensions is today urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit in order to secure this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

It comes as the government has had to make some difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy due to the dire state of the public finances, with the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – set to be means-tested and delivered to those on Pension Credit to ensure it is targeted towards those in most need.

Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments, but the government is determined to boost take-up of Pension Credit to ensure low-income pensioners continue to get this help.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary are writing to Local Authorities and will join forces with them, older peoples’ charities, and other groups this September for its annual Pension Credit Week of Action.

The government’s Pension Credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December, the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

The £22 billion black hole in the public finances we have inherited has required us to take difficult decisions, but I am determined to ensure low-income pensioners are supported.

That’s why I urge any pensioner, or their loved ones, to check if they could get Pension Credit.

This government remains completely committed to pensioners which is why we’re protecting the income of over 12 million pensioners through the Triple Lock.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

The dire state of the public finances we inherited from the previous government means we’ve had to make some very difficult decisions.

Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains, which is why we are maintaining the triple lock.

We want pensioners to get the support they are entitled to. That’s why I urge all pensioners to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Everyone has paid the price for over a decade of energy insecurity, which is why we are getting on with delivering clean power by 2030, alongside our ambitious Warm Homes Plan.

It is imperative that those eligible get the support they need this winter, which is why the government will do everything it can to roll out Pension Credit, making sure as many people as possible qualify for the up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

During the Week of Action, set to commence in September, the DWP and its partners will be tackling some of the myths that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving Pension Credit.

This work builds on last year’s Invitation to claim pilots, where letters and leaflets were targeted at households already in receipt of Housing Benefit, but not claiming Pension Credit in ten local authorities.

This work comes alongside wider plans to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock, improving energy security and keeping energy bills low through the Warm Homes Plan and cutting NHS waiting lists.

Over the next five years over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension increase by thousands of pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

And the Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. This government’s long-term plan will protect billpayers permanently and reduce fuel poverty.

Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they could be eligible. It is worth on average £3,900 a year and can also open doors to further financial help, such as housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

And, pensioners who own their own home or have savings or a private pension income could still be eligible – with DWP’s online calculator able to work out how much an individual could get.

Further Information

• Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
  • On the How to Claim page
  • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
  • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
  • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
• The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
• We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
• People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA and Universal Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
• The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
• 21 December is the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
• Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
• Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

The post Are you entitled to unclaimed pension credit? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-entitled-to-unclaimed-pension-credit

Google’s August 2024 core update is now done rolling out, a Google spokesperson told us. It started on August 15, 2024 and completed 19 days later on September 3, 2024. This update caused a lot of ranking movement and changes to the overall Google Search results.

As we said before, this update is not just a normal core update. The August 2024 core update took into account the feedback Google heard since the September 2023 helpful content update that seemed to have a negative impact on many small and independent publishers.

What we saw. In fact, we saw some movement for the first time with some (not all) sites hit by that update. I recent poll I ran showed that most who took the poll were negatively impacted by the last core update:

• 44% said My Rankings/Traffic Are Down (total votes 1,583)
• 27% said My Rankings/Traffic Are Up (total votes 993)
• 29% said No Change (total votes 1,038)

Overall, it seems like while we saw some recoveries from the September helpful content in 2023, that was only for a few sites and limited recoveries. Most sites did not see significant or meaningful recoveries, from what we can tell. And even more sites saw even more declines or just stayed the same.

Ranking bug. The first four or so days of the August core update, we also had a big search ranking bug that was fixed 4 days later. So, you should disregard any movement you saw during those first four days or so. You should compare the rankings and traffic you have seen from Google this week, going forward, compare to the weeks prior to the release of the August core update.

What Google said about the August core update. John Mueller, Search Advocate at Google, wrote when the update was originally released.

• “Today, we launched our August 2024 core update to Google Search. This update is designed to continue our work to improve the quality of our search results by showing more content that people find genuinely useful and less content that feels like it was made just to perform well on Search.”

Google said this update aims to promote useful content from small and independent publishers, after Google listened to feedback it received since the release of the March 2024 core update. Mueller added:

• “This latest update takes into account the feedback we’ve heard from some creators and others over the past few months. As always, we aim to connect people with a range of high quality sites, including ‘small’ or ‘“’independent’ sites that are creating useful, original content on relevant searches. This is an area we’ll continue to address in future updates.”

This August 2024 core update “aims to better capture improvements that sites may have made, so we can continue to surface the best of the web,” Mueller added.

Guidance updated. Google posted several updates to its help page about core updates, including more in-depth guidance for those who may see changes after an update.

Previous core updates. The previous core update – the March 2024 core update – was the largest core update, according to Google. It started March 5 and completed 45 days later on April 19.

Here’s a timeline and our coverage of recent core updates:

• The March 2024 core update was on March 5th and ended on April 19.
• The November 2023 core update was on November 2nd and ended on November 28.
• The October 2023 core update was on October 5th and ended on October 19
• The August 2023 core update was on August 22nd and ended on September 7.
• The March 2023 core update was on March 15th and ended on March 28th.
• The September 2022 broad core update was less impactful than previous core updates and finished on Sept. 26.
• The May 2022 broad core update was a significant and fast update.
• The November 2021 core update 
• The July 2021 core update.
• The June 2021 core update, which was slow to roll out but a big one.

What to do if you are hit. Google has given advice on what to consider if you are negatively impacted by a core update in the past. Google has not really given much new advice here.

• There aren’t specific actions to take to recover. A negative rankings impact may not signal anything is wrong with your pages.
• Google has offered a list of questions to consider if your site is hit by a core update.
• Google said you can see a bit of a recovery between core updates but the biggest change would be after another core update.

In short, write helpful content for people and not to rank in search engines.

• “There’s nothing new or special that creators need to do for this update as long as they’ve been making satisfying content meant for people. For those that might not be ranking as well, we strongly encourage reading our creating helpful, reliable, people-first content help page,” Google said previously.

Why we care. By now, you should probably see the trend of this update and how it may have affected your website. If you noticed improvements, then great – if not, then maybe you have more work to do so Google will deem your site helpful enough to rank better in the Google search results.

Google releases core update every few to several months, so you should always continue to work on improving your site and the content on your site. Future updates may benefit your site’s ranking and Google traffic – so always be working on improvements – not just for Google Search but also for your website users.

Google did tell us there won’t be a feedback form for this update.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-august-2024-core-update-rollout-is-now-complete-446225

• Claiming Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to additional help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills
• Comes as Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary write to Local Authorities to boost uptake of pension credit in their local areas

The Department for Work and Pensions is today urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit in order to secure this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

It comes as the government has had to make some difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy due to the dire state of the public finances, with the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – set to be means-tested and delivered to those on Pension Credit to ensure it is targeted towards those in most need.

Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments, but the government is determined to boost take-up of Pension Credit to ensure low-income pensioners continue to get this help.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary are writing to Local Authorities and will join forces with them, older peoples’ charities, and other groups this September for its annual Pension Credit Week of Action.

The government’s Pension Credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December, the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

The £22 billion black hole in the public finances we have inherited has required us to take difficult decisions, but I am determined to ensure low-income pensioners are supported.

That’s why I urge any pensioner, or their loved ones, to check if they could get Pension Credit.

This government remains completely committed to pensioners which is why we’re protecting the income of over 12 million pensioners through the Triple Lock.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

The dire state of the public finances we inherited from the previous government means we’ve had to make some very difficult decisions.

Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains, which is why we are maintaining the triple lock.

We want pensioners to get the support they are entitled to. That’s why I urge all pensioners to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Everyone has paid the price for over a decade of energy insecurity, which is why we are getting on with delivering clean power by 2030, alongside our ambitious Warm Homes Plan.

It is imperative that those eligible get the support they need this winter, which is why the government will do everything it can to roll out Pension Credit, making sure as many people as possible qualify for the up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

During the Week of Action, set to commence in September, the DWP and its partners will be tackling some of the myths that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving Pension Credit.

This work builds on last year’s Invitation to claim pilots, where letters and leaflets were targeted at households already in receipt of Housing Benefit, but not claiming Pension Credit in ten local authorities.

This work comes alongside wider plans to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock, improving energy security and keeping energy bills low through the Warm Homes Plan and cutting NHS waiting lists.

Over the next five years over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension increase by thousands of pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

And the Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. This government’s long-term plan will protect billpayers permanently and reduce fuel poverty.

Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they could be eligible. It is worth on average £3,900 a year and can also open doors to further financial help, such as housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

And, pensioners who own their own home or have savings or a private pension income could still be eligible – with DWP’s online calculator able to work out how much an individual could get.

Further Information

• Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
  • On the How to Claim page
  • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
  • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
  • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
• The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
• We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
• People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA and Universal Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
• The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
• 21 December is the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
• Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
• Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

The post Are you entitled to unclaimed pension credit? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-entitled-to-unclaimed-pension-credit

• Claiming Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to additional help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills
• Comes as Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary write to Local Authorities to boost uptake of pension credit in their local areas

The Department for Work and Pensions is today urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit in order to secure this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

It comes as the government has had to make some difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy due to the dire state of the public finances, with the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – set to be means-tested and delivered to those on Pension Credit to ensure it is targeted towards those in most need.

Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments, but the government is determined to boost take-up of Pension Credit to ensure low-income pensioners continue to get this help.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary are writing to Local Authorities and will join forces with them, older peoples’ charities, and other groups this September for its annual Pension Credit Week of Action.

The government’s Pension Credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December, the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

The £22 billion black hole in the public finances we have inherited has required us to take difficult decisions, but I am determined to ensure low-income pensioners are supported.

That’s why I urge any pensioner, or their loved ones, to check if they could get Pension Credit.

This government remains completely committed to pensioners which is why we’re protecting the income of over 12 million pensioners through the Triple Lock.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

The dire state of the public finances we inherited from the previous government means we’ve had to make some very difficult decisions.

Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains, which is why we are maintaining the triple lock.

We want pensioners to get the support they are entitled to. That’s why I urge all pensioners to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Everyone has paid the price for over a decade of energy insecurity, which is why we are getting on with delivering clean power by 2030, alongside our ambitious Warm Homes Plan.

It is imperative that those eligible get the support they need this winter, which is why the government will do everything it can to roll out Pension Credit, making sure as many people as possible qualify for the up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

During the Week of Action, set to commence in September, the DWP and its partners will be tackling some of the myths that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving Pension Credit.

This work builds on last year’s Invitation to claim pilots, where letters and leaflets were targeted at households already in receipt of Housing Benefit, but not claiming Pension Credit in ten local authorities.

This work comes alongside wider plans to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock, improving energy security and keeping energy bills low through the Warm Homes Plan and cutting NHS waiting lists.

Over the next five years over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension increase by thousands of pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

And the Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. This government’s long-term plan will protect billpayers permanently and reduce fuel poverty.

Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they could be eligible. It is worth on average £3,900 a year and can also open doors to further financial help, such as housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

And, pensioners who own their own home or have savings or a private pension income could still be eligible – with DWP’s online calculator able to work out how much an individual could get.

Further Information

• Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
  • On the How to Claim page
  • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
  • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
  • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
• The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
• We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
• People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA and Universal Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
• The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
• 21 December is the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
• Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
• Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

The post Are you entitled to unclaimed pension credit? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-entitled-to-unclaimed-pension-credit

• Claiming Pension Credit can also passport pensioners to additional help with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills
• Comes as Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary write to Local Authorities to boost uptake of pension credit in their local areas

The Department for Work and Pensions is today urging pensioners to check their eligibility for Pension Credit in order to secure this year’s Winter Fuel Payment.

It comes as the government has had to make some difficult decisions to fix the foundations of the economy due to the dire state of the public finances, with the Winter Fuel Payment – worth up to £300 – set to be means-tested and delivered to those on Pension Credit to ensure it is targeted towards those in most need.

Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments, but the government is determined to boost take-up of Pension Credit to ensure low-income pensioners continue to get this help.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Work and Pensions Secretary are writing to Local Authorities and will join forces with them, older peoples’ charities, and other groups this September for its annual Pension Credit Week of Action.

The government’s Pension Credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage pensioners to apply by 21 December, the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, in order to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.

While around 1.4 million pensioners are already receiving Pension Credit there are up to an estimated 880,000 households eligible for the support who are yet to claim.

Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall said:

The £22 billion black hole in the public finances we have inherited has required us to take difficult decisions, but I am determined to ensure low-income pensioners are supported.

That’s why I urge any pensioner, or their loved ones, to check if they could get Pension Credit.

This government remains completely committed to pensioners which is why we’re protecting the income of over 12 million pensioners through the Triple Lock.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves said:

The dire state of the public finances we inherited from the previous government means we’ve had to make some very difficult decisions.

Our commitment to supporting pensioners remains, which is why we are maintaining the triple lock.

We want pensioners to get the support they are entitled to. That’s why I urge all pensioners to check whether they are eligible for Pension Credit.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:

Everyone has paid the price for over a decade of energy insecurity, which is why we are getting on with delivering clean power by 2030, alongside our ambitious Warm Homes Plan.

It is imperative that those eligible get the support they need this winter, which is why the government will do everything it can to roll out Pension Credit, making sure as many people as possible qualify for the up to £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

During the Week of Action, set to commence in September, the DWP and its partners will be tackling some of the myths that may stop people applying, such as how having savings, a pension or owning a home are not necessarily barriers to receiving Pension Credit.

This work builds on last year’s Invitation to claim pilots, where letters and leaflets were targeted at households already in receipt of Housing Benefit, but not claiming Pension Credit in ten local authorities.

This work comes alongside wider plans to ensure economic stability for pensioners by protecting the Triple Lock, improving energy security and keeping energy bills low through the Warm Homes Plan and cutting NHS waiting lists.

Over the next five years over 12 million pensioners will see their State Pension increase by thousands of pounds as a result of the commitment to the Triple Lock.

And the Warm Homes Plan which will support investment in insulation and low carbon heating – upgrading millions of homes over this Parliament. This government’s long-term plan will protect billpayers permanently and reduce fuel poverty.

Pensioners whose weekly income is below £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for a couple should check to see if they could be eligible. It is worth on average £3,900 a year and can also open doors to further financial help, such as housing costs, council tax, and heating bills, and the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £300.

And, pensioners who own their own home or have savings or a private pension income could still be eligible – with DWP’s online calculator able to work out how much an individual could get.

Further Information

• Applications for Pension Credit can be made:
  • On the How to Claim page
  • Over the phone by calling 0800 99 1234 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm)
  • By printing out and filling in a paper application form
  • For more information visit the Pension Credit GOV.UK page.
• The Winter Fuel Payment is worth £300 for households with someone aged 80 or over. Households with someone aged 66-79 will receive £200.
• We will work with Local Authorities to bring together the administration of Pension Credit and Housing Benefit as soon as operationally possible.
• People who have reached State Pension age before September 23, 2024 and are in receipt of Pension Credit, Income Support, Income based JSA, Income related ESA and Universal Credit, will be entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment – subject to eligibility conditions.
• The regulations to means-test the Winter Fuel Payment will be laid on 22 August 2024. The qualifying week in 2024 for Winter Fuel Payments will be from 16 to 22 September.
• 21 December is the last date for making a backdated claim for Pension Credit, assuming the claimant met the Pension Credit entitlement conditions throughout the previous three months.
• Anyone who is entitled to Pension Credit for at least one day of the Winter Fuel Payment qualifying week will have automatic entitlement to Winter Fuel Payment. There are some exceptions which are detailed on GOV.UK: Winter Fuel Payment: Eligibility – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• People do not have to do anything extra to backdate their claim. If they make their application online, they will automatically be asked if they would like to backdate it. If they make their application over the phone the advisor will talk them through this.
• Around 1.3 million households in England and Wales will continue to receive Winter Fuel Payments due to some other pensioner households being eligible and expected extra Pension Credit take up due to this reform.

Pension Credit recipients by region (as of February 2024):

The post Are you entitled to unclaimed pension credit? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Original source: https://www.moneymagpie.com/make-money/are-you-entitled-to-unclaimed-pension-credit

Google rolled out a significant update to Google Analytics 4 (GA4), allowing users to compare their performance with other businesses in their industry.

Why we care: This new feature will provide valuable context for advertisers trying to understand their performance relative to their peers, potentially informing strategic decisions and goal-setting.

How it works.

• Users can access benchmarking data if their property has the “Modeling contributions & business insights” setting enabled in Admin > Account Settings.
• Benchmarks are refreshed every 24 hours.
• The summary displays:
  1. Your trendline.
  2. Median in your peer group.
  3. Range in your peer group (25th to 75th percentile).

Key features.

• Customizable peer groups: Users can select from various categories to find the most relevant comparison group.
• Data privacy: Google assures that benchmarking data is encrypted, protected and aggregated to maintain privacy.
• Wide range of metrics: Covers acquisition, engagement, retention and monetization.

The big picture. This update addresses a long-standing need in the analytics community for comparative data, allowing businesses to gauge their performance more accurately within their industry context.

What’s next. Users are encouraged to check their GA4 accounts for this new feature and explore how it can enhance their analytics insights.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-analytics-4-benchmarking-data-446142

Home Business Magazine Online

Air compressors are invaluable tools in various industries and home workshops, providing the power needed for countless tasks. However, when an air compressor isn’t installed properly, it can lead to a cascade of problems, ranging from diminished performance to costly repairs and even safety hazards. Recognizing the signs of a botched installation is key to addressing these issues promptly and ensuring your air compressor operates safely and efficiently. If you suspect your installation was subpar, it’s wise to look into “air compressor repair near me” to find qualified professionals who can diagnose and rectify the problem.

The Importance of Proper Air Compressor Installation

Before diving into the warning signs, let’s emphasize why proper installation is paramount. An air compressor is a complex system with various components working together to generate and deliver compressed air. When installed correctly, these components function harmoniously, ensuring optimal performance, energy efficiency, and longevity. Conversely, a botched installation can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to many problems that compromise the compressor’s effectiveness and lifespan.

Common Red Flags

Excessive Noise and Vibration

One of the most noticeable signs of a poorly installed air compressor is excessive noise and vibration. If your compressor sounds like a jet engine or shakes violently during operation, it’s a clear indication that something is amiss. This could be due to improper mounting, loose connections, or inadequate vibration isolation. Ignoring these signs can not only be a nuisance but also lead to premature wear and tear on the compressor’s components.

Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breakers

If your air compressor consistently trips the circuit breaker, it’s a strong indication of an electrical issue. This could be caused by using the wrong wire gauge, improper grounding, or overloading the circuit. Electrical problems can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately by a qualified electrician.

Moisture in the Air Lines

Moisture contamination is a common problem in air compressor systems, and it can stem from incorrect installation of air dryers or moisture separators. Excessive moisture can lead to rust and corrosion in air tools and equipment, as well as affect the quality of the finished product in certain applications. Inspecting the air lines for signs of moisture and ensuring the proper functioning of air treatment components is essential.

Low Air Pressure or Inconsistent Output

If your air compressor struggles to maintain the desired pressure or delivers inconsistent airflow, it could be due to leaks in the system, a malfunctioning pressure switch, or inadequate pipe sizing. These issues can significantly hamper productivity and lead to frustration, especially in industrial settings where reliable air pressure is crucial.

Overheating

An air compressor that overheats is not only inefficient but also at risk of damage. Overheating can be caused by inadequate ventilation, clogged air filters, or a malfunctioning cooling system. If you notice your compressor running excessively hot, it’s crucial to investigate the cause and take corrective action to prevent costly repairs.

How to Fix Installation Issues

If you’ve identified signs of a botched installation, don’t despair. There are several steps you can take to address the issues and restore your air compressor’s optimal performance. Here’s a breakdown of some common fixes:

• Consult the Manual: Always refer to the manufacturer’s installation manual for specific guidelines and recommendations. This document provides valuable information on proper mounting, piping, electrical connections, and maintenance procedures.
• Check for Leaks: Inspect all connections, hoses, and fittings for leaks. Even small leaks can significantly impact air pressure and efficiency. Use soapy water to identify leaks and tighten or replace any faulty components.
• Verify Electrical Connections: Ensure that the electrical connections are secure and that the correct wire gauge is used. If you’re unsure, consult an electrician to verify the wiring and grounding.
• Inspect Air Treatment Components: Check that the air dryer or moisture separator is functioning correctly and that the air filter is clean. Replace any worn-out or damaged components.
• Consider Professional Help: If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting and fixing the issues yourself, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. A qualified air compressor technician can diagnose the problems accurately and provide effective solutions. Searching for “air compressor installation near me” or “air compressor repair near me” can help you find local experts.

Preventing Installation Problems

The most effective way to sidestep the frustrations and expenses associated with a poorly installed air compressor is to prioritize getting it right from the very beginning. This involves a multi-pronged approach, starting with careful selection of the right compressor for your specific needs and intended application. A compressor that is too small will struggle to meet demand, while one that is too large will waste energy and money.

Once you’ve chosen the appropriate compressor, meticulous adherence to the manufacturer’s installation guidelines is paramount. These instructions are not mere suggestions; they are carefully crafted to ensure optimal performance, safety, and longevity of your equipment. Cutting corners or taking shortcuts during installation can lead to a lot of problems down the line.

Investing in high-quality components, such as piping, fittings, and electrical connections, is another crucial aspect of a successful installation. Inferior components are more prone to leaks, corrosion, and other issues that can compromise the compressor’s efficiency and lifespan.

If you lack the experience or confidence to tackle the installation yourself, seek the expertise of a qualified professional. While professional installation may incur an upfront cost, it can save you significant money by preventing costly repairs and ensuring that your air compressor operates at peak efficiency from day one.

Conclusion

Proper air compressor installation is not just a matter of convenience; it’s essential for safety, efficiency, and longevity. By being aware of the warning signs of a botched installation and taking proactive steps to address any issues, you can ensure that your air compressor operates at its best, saving you time, money, and frustration in the long run. Remember, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult with air compressor repair Chicago services to get your system back on track. Investing in a professional air compressor installation is an investment in your peace of mind and the longevity of your equipment, ensuring it remains a valuable asset for years of reliable service.

The post Warning Signs Your Air Compressor Installation Was Botched (And How to Fix It) appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/growing-a-business/upgrading-equipment/botched-installation-signs-look-air-compressor/