Thousands of pensioners across the UK are quietly missing out on life-changing financial support, simply because they are not claiming benefits they are already entitled to. In many cases, this lost support can add up to £18,000 a year or more, at a time when the cost of living continues to stretch household budgets.
What makes this situation even more concerning is that these benefits are not new, they are not loans, and claiming them does not affect your State Pension. Yet many older people either do not know they qualify, assume they are not eligible, or feel unsure about the application process.
This article explains the two key benefits most often overlooked, who can claim them, how much they are worth, and why claiming them can unlock even more financial help.
Why so many pensioners miss out
There is a common belief among older people that benefits are only for those who have never worked or who are struggling severely. In reality, many benefits are designed specifically to support pensioners who have modest incomes, health conditions, or mobility difficulties.
Some pensioners assume they earn “too much” to qualify. Others believe owning a home automatically disqualifies them. In fact, neither of these assumptions is always true.
Another major reason people miss out is complexity. Forms, assessments, and official letters can feel overwhelming, especially if you are managing health issues or living alone. As a result, many simply never apply.
The first benefit: Pension Credit
Pension Credit is one of the most underclaimed benefits in the UK, despite being specifically created to support older people.
It is designed to top up your weekly income if you are over State Pension age and on a low income. Crucially, it does not matter how much you paid into the system in the past.
How much Pension Credit can be worth
Pension Credit can be worth thousands of pounds per year on its own.
It has two parts:
• Guarantee Credit – tops up your weekly income
• Savings Credit – extra money for some people who saved for retirement
Depending on your circumstances, Pension Credit can boost your income by £3,900 a year or more. But that is only the start.
The hidden value of Pension Credit
One of the biggest advantages of Pension Credit is that it acts as a gateway benefit. Once you qualify, you may also unlock:
• Free TV licence if you are over a certain age
• Full Council Tax reduction
• Help with housing costs
• Cold Weather Payments
• Warm Home Discount
• Extra NHS support including dental care and glasses
When these are added together, the total value can rise dramatically.
Who can claim Pension Credit
You may qualify if:
• You are over State Pension age
• You live in the UK
• Your weekly income is below a certain level
• You have savings under specific thresholds (but savings do not automatically disqualify you)
Importantly, home ownership does not stop you from claiming.
Many pensioners assume they are not eligible simply because they own their home or have some savings. In reality, large numbers of homeowners still qualify.
The second benefit: Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is another benefit that often goes unclaimed, despite being one of the most valuable for older people.
It is for pensioners who need help because of illness, disability, or age-related conditions. You do not need a formal carer, and the money is paid directly to you.
How much Attendance Allowance pays
Attendance Allowance is paid weekly at two possible rates:
• Lower rate – for help needed during the day or night
• Higher rate – for help needed during the day and night
At the higher rate, Attendance Allowance can be worth nearly £6,000 per year.
This money is tax-free and can be spent however you need, including help at home, transport, heating, or everyday living costs.
What counts as needing help
Many people believe Attendance Allowance is only for severe disabilities. This is not true.
You may qualify if you struggle with:
• Washing or bathing
• Dressing or undressing
• Preparing or eating food
• Taking medication
• Moving safely around your home
• Remembering tasks due to memory issues
You do not need to have someone helping you already. What matters is whether you need help, not whether you receive it.
Why Attendance Allowance is often overlooked
Attendance Allowance does not depend on income or savings, which surprises many people. Because it is not means-tested, pensioners often assume it does not apply to them.
Others feel uncomfortable describing their difficulties, especially if they have managed independently for many years. However, the assessment is about recognising genuine needs, not losing independence.
How the two benefits add up to £18,000 a year
When Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance are claimed together, the financial impact can be substantial.
Here is how the total can build up:
• Pension Credit top-ups
• Attendance Allowance payments
• Council Tax reductions
• Free TV licence
• Energy support and heating discounts
• NHS cost exemptions
In many real-world cases, the combined value reaches £18,000 a year or more, particularly for single pensioners on a low income with health needs.
Extra benefits unlocked by claiming Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance can also increase entitlement to other support, including:
• Higher Housing Benefit
• Extra Pension Credit
• Additional local authority support
This knock-on effect is one reason advisers strongly encourage eligible pensioners to apply.
Common myths that stop people claiming
There are several myths that prevent pensioners from applying:
• “I’ve worked all my life, I shouldn’t claim”
• “Other people need it more than me”
• “I own my home, so I won’t qualify”
• “The process is too complicated”
In reality, these benefits exist because many older people struggle with rising costs, even after a lifetime of work.
How to apply safely and correctly
Applications can be made by phone or by post, and help is available if forms feel difficult. You do not need to rush, but it is important to answer questions honestly and fully.
For Attendance Allowance in particular, it helps to describe your worst days, not just your best ones. This ensures assessors understand your true level of need.
Why claiming now matters more than ever
With energy prices, food costs, and household bills remaining high, every pound matters. These benefits are designed to protect pensioners from financial hardship and help maintain dignity and independence in later life.
Unclaimed support does not get saved for later. If you do not apply, the money simply goes unused.
A final word for pensioners and families
If you or a loved one is over State Pension age, it is worth checking entitlement even if you think you will not qualify. Many people are surprised to discover they are eligible.
Claiming what you are entitled to is not taking advantage of the system. It is using the support that exists for you.
For thousands of UK pensioners, taking this single step can mean the difference between struggling quietly and living with greater comfort, security, and peace of mind.