The UK’s elderly population is being encouraged to verify if they’re missing out on over a dozen crucial benefits and discounts, some of which could potentially increase their annual income by thousands of pounds. As the cost of living continues to rise, pension experts are alerting that millions of retirees might be unknowingly leaving money unclaimed.
With more than 13 million individuals now over the State Pension age in the UK, it’s believed many could be eligible for Council Tax reductions, Pension Credit, disability payments, free TV licences, heating assistance, among other benefits.
While the full New State Pension offers up to £921 every four weeks and the Basic State Pension provides up to £705.80, these are just parts of the overall financial picture for retirees.
Pension specialists at Spencer Churchill Claims Advice are urging people to take action now to ensure they’re receiving all the benefits they’re entitled to. A spokesperson highlighted: “There’s a widespread misconception that once someone starts receiving their State Pension, that’s all they can claim.”
The truth, however, is that there are numerous additional forms of support available – many of which go unclaimed because people simply aren’t aware of their existence, the spokesperson added.
“Pension Credit is a prime example. It’s worth around £4,300 a year on average and it also unlocks other benefits like free dental care, help with rent and reduced energy bills. But uptake remains stubbornly low despite thousands of people being eligible.”
DWP and other benefits state pensioners could claim
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) along with consumer organisations have highlighted that a significant number of older individuals are failing to claim benefits that could greatly alleviate their financial burdens.
Key benefits and entitlements include:
- Pension Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Council Tax Support
- Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments
- War Widow(er)’s Pension
- Help with NHS costs, free eye tests and dental treatment
- Free or discounted TV Licences
- Energy-saving home upgrades like insulation and boiler replacement
“In many cases, it’s not about complex applications or means testing – just checking your eligibility and submitting a simple claim. But older people who are not online, or aren’t aware of what’s available, may miss out completely,” said a pension expert at Spencer Churchill Claims Advice.
“That’s why we’re encouraging friends, family and neighbours to have that conversation. A five-minute phone call could mean someone getting an extra £80 a week or more.
“We also remind people that some support, like Attendance Allowance or War Widows’ Pension, isn’t means-tested, and can still be claimed even if you’re already receiving a full State Pension.”
