A short call to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could result in thousands of pounds in additional income each year for pensioners across the UK.
Recent estimates suggest that approximately 750,000 individuals may be missing out on vital financial support through unclaimed Pension Credit, often due to outdated records or simply not knowing they qualify.
According to a report from the Manchester Evening News, many pensioners are receiving less than they are entitled to from the State Pension, highlighting a widespread issue that could be addressed by taking just five minutes to verify one’s eligibility over the phone.
Potential Increase of £80 per Week Through Pension Credit
Experts from Spencer Churchill Claims Advice are encouraging pensioners to take just five minutes to check their eligibility for Pension Credit. A spokesperson explained that the benefit is
Worth around £4,300 a year on average, and that it also
Unlocks other benefits like free dental care, help with rent and reduced energy bills.
They added:
A five-minute phone call could mean someone getting an extra £80 a week or more.
This benefit is non-taxable and means-tested, but often easier to access than many assume. The recent government campaign to promote Pension Credit eligibility was launched alongside changes to the Winter Fuel Payments, which are now means-tested. This triggered a significant rise in new applications.
Secondary Benefits Linked to Pension Credit Eligibility
Claiming Pension Credit can also open access to a wide range of other financial supports, including :
- Attendance Allowance
- Council Tax Support
- Winter Fuel Payments
- Cold Weather Payments
- War Widow(er)’s Pension
- Free eye tests and dental treatments
- Free or discounted TV licence
- Energy-saving home upgrades, such as insulation or boiler replacement
These benefits, when combined, may substantially improve the quality of life for pensioners with limited incomes.
A specialist from Spencer Churchill clarified:
In many cases, it’s not about complex applications or means testing – just checking your eligibility and submitting a simple claim.
Misconceptions persist among older adults who assume that receiving a State Pension automatically disqualifies them from other forms of support.
National Insurance Errors and Overlooked Entitlements
Dean Butler, Managing Director at Standard Life, pointed out systemic issues within the pension system. He said:
Around 750,000 people are not receiving the correct state pension amount either due to errors in National Insurance records or the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) not making adjustments when there’s a change to your circumstances.
Specific groups are advised to check their entitlements more closely:
- Women whose husbands retired after March 17, 2008, who may have missed adjustments to their pension.
- Those who raised children, who should ensure they received corresponding National Insurance credits.
- Individuals aged 80 or over with low pension amounts, who may qualify for the over-80s rate.
- Universal Credit recipients, who should verify they are receiving National Insurance credits consistently.
