Q You quoted a couple with State Pensions of £176 and £62.11 a week. We get less. I thought State Pensions were the same for everyone.

A People get different amounts depending on their circumstances. The basic pension can vary according to your National Insurance record or, for a married woman, whether her pension is based upon her contributions or her husband's. The extras, paid on top of the basic pension, will vary depending upon your past earnings and whether you have a works pension.

Q What benefits can I claim? I earn £173.61 a week.

A You do not give enough detail for me to be of much help. However, it might be worth claiming Working Tax Credit by phoning 0845 300 3900. Assuming you are single with no children, you would be eligible if you expect your gross income for the 2006/2007 tax year to be less than £11,500.

Q As a woman retired at 60, I have a State Pension of £121.50 a week and a works pension of less than £2 a week. My savings are £2,300. I have Council Tax Benefit that reduces my monthly bill to £12, but can I get Pension Credit or help with new glasses?

A No Pension Credit yet. You come under the Guarantee Pension Credit scheme that ensures you have an income of £114.05 a week. At 65, the additional Savings Credit becomes available and, with your income, you should get this then. Regarding glasses, apply for a low income certificate from the Prescription Pricing Authority (telephone 0845 850 1166). You will probably qualify for an NHS glasses voucher.

Q My council tax is £900. At 52, with Incapacity Benefit of £169 a fortnight and a private pension of £276.90 a month, what help can I get?

A As council tax goes up, more people qualify for low-income reductions. You can now claim a reduction of nearly £200 for the year.