State pensioners are being warned they may be missing on support worth thousands of pounds.
A number of schemes are available to boost the income of eligible state pensioners, including Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance and Council Tax Support.
But many of these go unclaimed because people don’t know they can get them or assume they won’t qualify.
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Hundreds of thousands of pensioners miss out on extra cash they are entitled to.
Pension Credit is one of the most underclaimed benefits.
It tops up the income of poorer pensioners, and also allows them to receive the Winter Fuel Payment.
It can be worth around an extra £4,300 a year.
Pension experts at Spencer Churchill Claims Advice explained: “There’s a widespread misconception that once someone starts receiving their state pension, that’s all they can claim.
“But the truth is, there are multiple additional forms of support available – many of which go unclaimed because people simply don’t realise they exist.
“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.”
Among the key benefits and entitlements are:
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Pension Credit
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Attendance Allowance
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Council Tax Support
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Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments
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War Widow(er)’s Pension
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Help with NHS costs, free eye tests and dental treatment
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Free or discounted TV Licences
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Energy-saving home upgrades like insulation and boiler replacement
The spokesperson added: “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.
“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.”
