Those receiving a State Pension could be entitled to extra benefits
Older people in the UK are being urged to check if they’re missing out on more than a dozen key benefits and discounts – some of which could boost their income by thousands of pounds per year.
As the cost of living continues to bite, pension experts are warning that millions of retirees could be unknowingly leaving money on the table.
With more than 13 million people now over State Pension age in the UK, experts say many could access Council Tax reductions, Pension Credit, disability payments, free TV licences, heating help and more.
While the full New State Pension pays up to £921 every four weeks and the Basic State Pension pays up to £705.80, that’s only part of the picture.
Pension experts at Spencer Churchill Claims Advice have urged people to act now to ensure they’re getting everything they’re entitled to.
A spokesperson said: “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,” a spokesperson said.
“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) and consumer organisations have also flagged how many older people are missing out on help that could significantly ease financial pressure. Among the key benefits and entitlements are:
- 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.”
