Is there anything we can claim?

AYes. pension Credit of £64 a week. Ring (0800) 991234 to claim.

Q We sold our business nine years ago and have been living on the proceeds since. Our capital now stands at £21,872. I am 61 with a State Pension of £27.56 and a private pension of £1,052 a year. My husband is 64 with a private pension of £1,876 a year. Can we claim Pension Credit or help with our £1,228.39 a year council tax?

A Yes, both. You are due Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit) of £40.92 a week. Capital over £16,000 normally rules a person out for Council Tax Benefit. However, as your income is low enough for you to get Guarantee Credit, you will also be eligible for a maximum council tax rebate. Benefit will be re-assessed when your husband gets his State Pension at 65.

Q I have been diagnosed as terminally ill with lung cancer. The joint income for me and my partner, who works full-time, is too high for us to get Income Support or Council Tax Benefit, so can I claim anything?

A Attendance Allowance (or Disability Living Allowance for the under-65s) is paid regardless of income. Those who are terminally ill qualify for £58.80 a week under special rules. Phone the Department for Work and Pensions Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 882200 for help in claiming.

Q Why does the weekly State Pension vary so much?

AFirstly, because it depends upon how many years of National Insurance a person has built up during their working life. Secondly, it can vary according to what sort of additional pension someone has earned. If that additional pension comes from the state, once called Serps, it is paid in with the basic Sate Pension. If it comes from an occupational or private pension, it will be paid separately.