QI worked full-time for 45 years, while my wife did 40 years, mostly part-time. How come her state pension is £86 while mine is only £80.93?

ALook at how your pensions are made up. How much additional pension is included? The maximum basic state pension is £75.50 but I expect the difference lies in your additional pensions. Hers will be State Earnings Related Pension, paid with her basic. Yours will be a works pension, paid separately and probably more than hers.

QMy husband already has a state pension of £93 a week. If I retire next year my combined state and personal pensions will be £127 a week. We have £13,000 saved but will be spending some on home improvements. Can we claim any extra benefits such as for council tax?

AIt's doubtful. Even with no savings you could only get help if your council tax was more than £730 a year. With £10,000 savings you would be expected to pay up to £896 a year.

QWe are two sisters, living together, aged 86 and 88, who now find it difficult to get about. We pay for taxis or for somebody to run errands. Can we get any allowance for transport?

AThe only benefit specifically for transport is Disability Living Allowance, but this must be claimed before you reach 65. People in your age group often miss out on low income benefits, so write again with your financial details.

Q I receive Incapacity Benefit of £141.90 a fortnight. My wife, aged 61, has no income at all. In a similar case, you recently said that a benefit increase was due. Would this apply to me?

AYes indeed! An extra £42.45 Incapacity Benefit because your wife is over 60.

QI am 63, with a miner's pension of £205.28 a month and Incapacity Benefit

of £99.25 a week. My rent is £47.05 a week and council tax £518 a year. Can I get any rebates?

AOnly coppers off your council tax but Housing Benefit will reduce your basic rent to £31.40 a week