Thousands of pensioners are failing to claim benefits – check and claim what you’re owed

Even if you think you won’t qualify, it’s worth checking. Thousands of pensioners miss out every year simply because they assume they’re not eligible.

According to Money WeekOpens in a new window, almost a million eligible households are missing out on Pension Credit alone, with average losses estimated at around £4,300 a year.

Pension Credit is also important because it can unlock extra help with everyday costs, including:

• Council Tax Reduction
• housing support
• help with NHS costs
• warm Home Discount
• help with energy bills
• a free TV licence (if you’re over 75).

Unclaimed Pension Credit is estimated to be worth billions of pounds each year. So if you’re not claiming, you could be missing out on much more than just one payment.

We see it time and time again – people believe myths or misunderstand the system, so don’t bother applying.  Here are some common misconceptions:

“I have savings, so I won’t qualify”

You can still claim Pension Credit even if you have savings. While savings over £10,000 may affect how much you receive, they don’t automatically disqualify you.

“I own my home, so I won’t get anything”

Home ownership does not prevent you from claiming Pension Credit or other support.

“It’s too complicated”

The process may feel daunting, but there are clear steps to follow, and help is available to guide you through it.

“I don’t want to claim benefits”

Many people feel uncomfortable claiming, but Pension Credit and related support exist to ensure older people can afford essentials. If you’re eligible, you’ve earned that support.

Not knowing Pension Credit unlocks other help 

This is one of the biggest reasons people miss out. Even a small Pension Credit award can open the door to several other benefits and discounts.

Checking your eligibility can help overcome these barriers.

1. Do a quick eligibility check using our benefits calculator
2. You’ll need some basic information about your income, savings and housing
3. Apply online, by phone or by post, depending on the benefit
4. If approved, payments may be backdated and paid regularly. 

Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to claim:

• Pension Credit 
• Council Tax Reduction and other council support
• Attendance Allowance
• Help with housing costs
• Help with energy and essential bills. 

Pension Credit tops up your weekly income if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income.

It comes in two parts: 

• Guarantee Credit – tops up your income to a minimum level
• Savings Credit – extra money for people who saved some money toward retirement.

Even a small award can unlock additional help.

For more details, see our guide Increase your retirement income with Pension Credit.

If you’re on a low income, you may qualify for help with your Council Tax bill.

Each local council runs its own scheme, so the level of support varies.

You may also qualify for:

• Discretionary housing payments
• local welfare schemes
• household support funds.

See Help if you’re struggling to pay Council Tax.

Attendance Allowance helps with extra costs if you have a disability or health condition and need help with personal care.

It is:

• not means-tested
• not affected by savings
• tax-free. 

See How to claim Attendance Allowance. 

If you rent your home, you may qualify for: 

• Housing Benefit 
• support for Mortgage Interest (if you own your home and receive certain benefits). 

See Benefits to help with housing costs.

If you’re claiming Pension Credit or other support, you may also qualify for help with energy and essential bills. 

If you’re struggling to pay, contact your energy supplier as soon as possible, ideally before you miss a payment. They’re required to treat you fairly and work with you to find a solution and help you agree on a manageable solution. 

Support may include: 

• reviewing your payment plan 
• reducing payments temporarily 
• giving you longer to repay what you owe 
• access to hardship support in some cases 

If you receive certain benefits, you might also be able to use the Fuel Direct Scheme, where payments are taken directly from your benefits to cover ongoing energy use and any debt. 

If you’re managing several bills at once, our Bill prioritiser tool can help you decide what to pay first.

See Help if you’re struggling to pay your bills. 

Rising costs mean even small amounts of extra income can make a big difference.

Claiming support could help you:

• keep up with energy bills
• cover food and essential costs
• reduce financial stress
• improve your overall financial stability.

You may also be able to backdate claims, meaning you won’t miss out on past entitlement.

If you’re supporting a parent, grandparent or older relative:

• start the conversation gently
• reassure them that support is there to help
• offer to help gather documents or complete forms
• respect their independence while providing practical support.

Sometimes a simple eligibility check can reveal support they didn’t realise was available.