DWP Urges Pensioners to Claim £13,170 in Extra Support – Are You Missing Out?
Thousands of pensioners across the UK could be missing out on valuable financial support, with the DWP urging those over 66 to take action. Many retirees may be eligible for extra assistance, but a significant number have yet to claim it. This support could help ease the financial burden, but time may be running out. Here’s what you need to know—and how to find out if you qualify.
Thousands of pensioners across the UK could be missing out on over £13,000 worth of financial support, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The government is urging state pension recipients—particularly those born before 1959—to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, a benefit designed to boost the income of low-income retirees while unlocking additional financial aid.
Despite the significant financial help available, many pensioners are not claiming what they are entitled to, either due to a lack of awareness or the assumption that they do not qualify. With the cost of living remaining high, the DWP has launched a fresh appeal encouraging those over state pension age (currently 66 and over) to apply.
What Is Pension Credit and Who Can Claim?
Pension Creditis a means-tested benefit aimed at helping low-income pensioners by topping up their weekly income. However, it also serves as a gateway benefit, meaning that those who qualify can access additional financial support beyond the basic pension increase.
According to the DWP, many eligible pensioners have not yet claimed the benefit, missing out on thousands of pounds in additional support. To encourage applications, the government recently shared a message on social media:
“Are you over 66? A quick online application could unlock £4,200 per year on average in Pension Credit plus extra help with heating bills including a Warm Home Discount. Apply now.”
Are you over 66?
A quick online application could unlock £4,200 per year on average in Pension Credit plus extra help with heating bills including a Warm Home Discount
This message highlights not only the extra pension income available but also the additional benefits pensioners could access simply by qualifying for Pension Credit.
Breakdown of the £13,170 Support Package
Pension Credit does not just provide a direct cash boost—it also unlocks access to a range of other financial aid measures designed to help pensioners with housing, heating, and healthcare costs. Those who qualify for Pension Credit could be entitled to:
Pension Credit top-up – £4,200 per year on average
Housing Benefit – Up to £1,000 per year
Council Tax discount – Worth around £2,200 per year
Free TV Licence (for over-75s) – Worth £171 per year
Warm Home Discount – £150 per year
Free NHS prescriptions – Worth approximately £9.90 per item
Free eye tests and discounted glasses – Up to £215 per year
Free NHS dental treatment – Up to £1,000 per year
Royal Mail redirection discount – £24
Together, these benefits add up to as much as £13,170 per year, significantly easing financial pressure on pensioners struggling with rising living costs.
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
While Pension Credit is means-tested, eligibility is broader than many people assume. The MoneySavingExpert website explains that even those with some savings or additional income may still qualify.
To check if you are eligible:
If you are single, you are likely to qualify if your weekly income is below £218.
If you are a couple (both of pension age), you are likely to qualify if your combined weekly income is below £333.
Those with slightly higher incomes (under £235 for singles or £350 for couples) may still qualify, especially if they receive disability benefits or have caring responsibilities.
Many pensioners wrongly assume that having a small private pension or savings disqualifies them. However, the income thresholds take these into account, meaning many more pensioners are eligible than they realise.
How to Apply for Pension Credit
Unlike the state pension, which is paid automatically, Pension Credit must be claimed—and this is one of the key reasons why so many eligible pensioners miss out on the support.
Applications can be made via:
Gov.uk website (for those who have already claimed their state pension)
Pension Credit claim line – Call 0800 99 1234
Northern Ireland Pension Centre – Call 0808 100 6165
Another important factor is that claims can be backdated for up to three months, meaning pensioners who apply now could receive a lump sum payment covering missed months.
“It’s NOT automatic, so you MUST claim – here’s how. You can backdate it for three months, so the quicker you check, the quicker you’ll benefit.”
Why Many Pensioners Are Missing Out
Despite the significant financial help available, thousands of pensioners are not claiming Pension Credit. There are several reasons for this:
Lack of Awareness – Many pensioners do not realise they are eligible.
Assumption of Ineligibility – Some believe they earn too much to qualify, when in reality, many with modest incomes are eligible.
Complex Application Process – While the DWP insists the process is quick and simple, some pensioners find the idea of applying intimidating.
Stigma Around Benefits – Some people are reluctant to apply for financial help, believing they should manage without government support.
The DWP is urging families and friends of pensioners to help them check eligibility and assist with the application process if needed.
