Millions of older people across the UK are being warned that they could be missing out on as much as £1,339 a year in extra income, according to benefit experts and support organisations. The warning comes amid growing concern that large numbers of pensioners are not claiming support they are fully entitled to, often because they are unaware it exists or assume they would not qualify.
With household budgets under pressure and living costs remaining high, even a modest boost to annual income can make a meaningful difference. For many pensioners, an extra £1,339 could help cover energy bills, food costs, transport, or unexpected expenses. Yet despite this, uptake of certain benefits remains far lower than expected.
This article explains where the £1,339 figure comes from, which older people may be missing out, why so many eligible pensioners fail to claim, and what steps can be taken to check entitlement.
Why the £1,339 figure has triggered concern
An additional £1,339 a year works out at more than £110 a month, a sum that can significantly ease financial pressure for people living on fixed incomes. For pensioners who rely mainly on the State Pension, this amount can represent a noticeable improvement in quality of life.
The concern is not that benefits are being cut, but that existing support is going unclaimed by those who need it most.
What experts are warning older people about
Experts are warning that many pensioners wrongly assume they are not eligible for extra support because they own their home, have some savings, or receive the full State Pension. In reality, eligibility rules are often more generous than people expect.
As a result, large numbers of older people are missing out without realising it.
Where the £1,339 in extra income comes from
The £1,339 figure is commonly linked to Pension Credit entitlement. Pension Credit is designed to top up income for people over State Pension age who are on a low or modest income.
For those who qualify, the boost can amount to around this figure over a year, depending on circumstances.
What Pension Credit is and how it works
Pension Credit is a means‑tested benefit that increases weekly income to a minimum guaranteed level. It is paid on top of the State Pension and other income.
It is not automatic and must be claimed.
Why Pension Credit is often misunderstood
Many people believe Pension Credit is only for those with no savings or very low income. In reality, people with some savings, a private pension, or even part‑time earnings may still qualify.
This misunderstanding is one of the biggest reasons for low uptake.
How many pensioners are thought to be missing out
Estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of eligible pensioners do not claim Pension Credit. Collectively, this adds up to millions of pounds in unclaimed support each year.
The £1,339 figure highlights the scale of what individuals could be missing.
Why owning a home does not rule out entitlement
Owning a home does not automatically disqualify someone from Pension Credit. The value of a main home is not counted when assessing eligibility.
Many homeowners wrongly assume they cannot qualify.
The role of savings in eligibility
Savings do affect entitlement, but not as harshly as many people fear. Having savings above a certain level does not mean someone automatically misses out.
In some cases, support is still available.
How couples and single pensioners are affected
Eligibility thresholds differ depending on whether someone is single or part of a couple. Couples may qualify even if their combined income seems reasonable.
Household circumstances matter more than assumptions.
Why the warning focuses on older Brits
The warning focuses on older people because Pension Credit and related support are specifically aimed at those over State Pension age. Many of the people missing out are in their late 60s, 70s, or older.
This age group is also more likely to be cautious about claiming benefits.
The link between Pension Credit and other benefits
Pension Credit acts as a gateway to additional support. Qualifying can unlock help with council tax, housing costs, NHS charges, and even a free TV licence in some cases.
Missing out on Pension Credit can therefore mean missing multiple forms of support.
How the £1,339 figure can underestimate the true loss
While £1,339 is often quoted, the real financial impact of not claiming can be much higher when linked benefits are included. Over several years, the missed support can amount to thousands of pounds.
This makes awareness especially important.
Why pride and stigma play a role
Some older people avoid claiming benefits because they feel uncomfortable asking for help. Others believe benefits are only for people in severe hardship.
Experts stress that Pension Credit is an entitlement, not a handout.
How complexity discourages claims
The benefits system can appear complex, particularly for people who have never claimed before. Fear of forms, paperwork, or making mistakes puts some pensioners off entirely.
Clear guidance can help overcome this barrier.
Why many people assume they would not qualify
Many pensioners base their assumptions on outdated rules or hearsay. Changes over time mean eligibility may be broader than they realise.
Assumptions often replace facts.
How rising costs increase the importance of claiming
As everyday costs rise, unclaimed support becomes more significant. What once felt like a small top‑up can now help cover essential expenses.
Timing matters more than ever.
How to check eligibility for extra income
Eligibility can usually be checked using official tools or through advice organisations. These checks take into account income, savings, and household circumstances.
A quick check can provide reassurance.
Why checking does not commit someone to claiming
Checking eligibility does not obligate someone to make a claim. It simply provides information about whether support may be available.
This reassurance encourages more people to explore options.
What information is usually needed
Basic information such as income, savings, and household details is required to assess entitlement. Exact figures are helpful but estimates can often be used initially.
The process is designed to be accessible.
How backdated payments can apply
In some cases, successful claims can be backdated. This means pensioners could receive a lump‑sum payment covering the period before the claim was made.
This can provide immediate financial relief.
Why advice services encourage early action
The sooner someone checks eligibility, the sooner they can receive support if entitled. Delays mean more missed income over time.
Early action reduces long‑term loss.
How families and carers can help
Families and carers can play an important role by encouraging older relatives to check entitlement. Many claims are only made after prompting from loved ones.
Support can overcome hesitation.
Why official communication matters
Accurate information from trusted sources helps counter myths and misinformation. Relying on official guidance ensures people understand their real position.
Clarity builds confidence.
What has not changed
There has been no sudden new payment of £1,339 introduced. The warning relates to existing support that has been available but underclaimed.
Understanding this prevents confusion.
Why awareness campaigns are increasing
As awareness of low uptake grows, more organisations are highlighting the issue. The aim is to ensure support reaches those it was designed to help.
Awareness can close the gap.
What older people should do now
Older people who are unsure about their entitlement should consider checking their eligibility. Even those who have checked in the past may find circumstances have changed.
Rechecking can be worthwhile.
Why even small changes can affect eligibility
Changes in income, savings, or household circumstances can affect entitlement. What was true a few years ago may no longer apply.
Eligibility is not fixed for life.
Key points to remember
Millions of older Brits could be missing out on around £1,339 a year in extra income, mainly linked to Pension Credit. Many people wrongly assume they are not eligible and never check.
This missed support can add up over time.
Final thoughts
The warning that millions of older Brits may be missing £1,339 in extra income highlights a long‑standing issue rather than a new policy change. Existing support is available, but too many people are not claiming what they are entitled to.
For pensioners and their families, the most important step is awareness. Taking time to check eligibility can uncover valuable support and provide reassurance during a period of financial uncertainty. In a time when every pound matters, ensuring that no entitlement goes unclaimed can make a meaningful difference to daily life and long‑term financial security.