Octopus Energy has issued a national alert to more than 850,000 of its UK customers, warning they may be unknowingly passing up on substantial government financial aid. The company, one of the UK’s largest independent energy suppliers, highlights that many eligible individuals are not claiming Pension Credit, a benefit that could be worth over £2,600 annually.
The announcement comes as energy bills remain a major source of concern for older people on fixed incomes, with rising prices placing pressure on many low-income households. Octopus says the support is not automatic and is calling on customers to use its dedicated Octopus Assist tool to determine eligibility and start a claim.
Thousands Missing Out on Pension Credit and Linked Benefits
According to Octopus Energy, roughly 850,000 customers who could qualify for Pension Credit have not yet applied. This government benefit is designed for individuals over State Pension age with a low income and can provide an average of £2,677 in annual support.
Pension Credit is split into two parts: Guarantee Credit, which tops up weekly income, and Savings Credit, which offers extra support to those with modest savings or a slightly higher pension income.
Founder Greg Jackson stated:
“Our Octopus Assist application will tell you if you’re eligible for any support and we can help customers apply for those.”
He added that the company is currently collaborating with over 60 local councils to raise awareness among vulnerable residents.
By failing to claim Pension Credit, eligible customers are also missing out on further benefits automatically triggered by the entitlement. These include the Warm Home Discount (£150 off bills), Cold Weather Payments during extreme temperatures, and potential aid from the Household Support Fund, subject to local council criteria.
Winter Support Available but Awareness Remains Low
The warning comes ahead of the winter season, when energy usage typically spikes. According to Octopus Energy, many older customers may not realise that claiming Pension Credit could qualify them for several additional schemes, including the Winter Fuel Payment.
In particular, the Cold Weather Payment offers extra relief if the temperature drops below zero degrees Celsius for seven consecutive days and the claimant receives specific benefits. Yet public awareness of these schemes remains limited, particularly among pensioners without access to digital tools.
Charity Age UK also urges pensioners to check their eligibility, noting that even small pensions or modest savings do not necessarily disqualify applicants. “If you’re over State Pension age and finding it tricky to make ends meet, you might be able to claim Pension Credit to top up your income,” the organisation said.
