Q - When my husband and I were each awarded Attendance Allowance, we were sent details of how to claim Pension Credit. However, we claimed this last year and were told that we did not qualify. Is it worth going to the trouble of claiming again?

A - It is well worth a try. Now you both get Attendance Allowance your claim for Pension Credit will be calculated according to more generous rules. If you each also claim as the other's carer, your treatment will be even more generous. You would qualify if your weekly income (ignoring your Attendance Allowance) is assessed at less than £380.

Q - I am receiving Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. My son, who has been receiving Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, has just moved out. Will I get more rebates now?

A - It depends what contribution the council has been assuming from him towards rent and council tax. These contributions are based upon the person's age and income. With your son, they would have only been assuming something from him for rent (£7.40 a week) if he was 25 or over. They would assume no contribution towards council tax.

Q - I get a works pension of £1,705.52 a month, a State Pension of £91.28 and Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for care at the middle rate. My wife's State Pension is £51.39 and our savings are £22,000. Do we qualify for underlying entitlement to Carer's Allowance?

A - Yes, but I am afraid it will not do you any good. Your wife would be eligible because of your DLA. However, your income is too high for you to benefit from the more favourable treatment for Pension Credit and Council Tax Benefit that underlying entitlement brings.