Q I am about to take early retirement at the age of 57, having worked since I left school. My works pension will stop me getting Jobseeker's Allowance, but should I sign on unemployed to get credited contributions for my State Pension that is due at 65?

A You may not need to. The contributions you have paid already plus the credits you will automatically get at 60 may be enough. Check by completing a form BR19 from Social Security.

Q I will be 80 on Christmas Day. Will I get the £300 Winter Fuel Payment for the over 80s?

A Not this year, I am afraid. You need to have reached 80 by the week commencing September 15. You will get the £200 payable to those aged 60 and over.

Q Our Combined State Pension is £147.60 a week and my private pension £110 a month. I have Disability Living Allowance at Middle Rate for Care and our savings are £19,000. Can we get Pension Credit?

A Yes, £2 a week, but this could be £12 if your husband claimed underlying entitlement to Carer's Allowance.

Q I am getting £50 a week Bill Protector insurance. Will this affect my Minimum Income Guarantee?

A It depends why it was taken out and what it covers. If it is to safeguard certain credit or HP agreements, it can be ignored, but check with the Pensions Service.

Q I am a woman whose only income is State Pension of £107.14 a week. Can I get Pension Credit?

A If you have reached 65, yes - £12.78 a week.

Q My State Pension is £91.75 a week and my wife's is £46.35. Monthly, we both receive DLA Mobility of £159.80 plus my monthly works pension of £74.88. Our savings are £4,537. Can we claim Pension Credit?

A You will get the maximum of £19.20 a week. And, if you are paying rent and/or council tax, you should not be.

Q Will we get Pension Credit? Our monthly State Pensions are £364.88 and £185.40 and my MoD Pension is £188.60 a month. We have no savings.

A Pension Credit of £9.20 a week is due.