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Money Saving Expert founder Martin Lewis has warned that millions of pensioners could be missing out on thousands of pounds every year by not claiming benefits they’re entitled to.
The well-known consumer champion, famous for helping people cut costs on everything from insurance to energy bills, says many older people are unknowingly leaving money unclaimed. A wide range of government benefits exist to help with the extra costs of retirement, disability, illness, or needing day-to-day care — and importantly, some of these payments are available regardless of income. This means even pensioners who feel financially comfortable could still qualify.
Below is an overview of key Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits that are commonly missed, along with who can claim them.
State Pension
The new State Pension can be claimed once you reach State Pension age if you are:
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A man born on or after 6 April 1951
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A woman born on or after 6 April 1953
Those born earlier fall under the basic State Pension system and may also receive Additional State Pension depending on their National Insurance record.
Basic & Additional State Pension
The basic State Pension applies to men born before 6 April 1951 and women born before 6 April 1953, provided they have enough qualifying National Insurance years. Some may also receive Additional State Pension, which is paid automatically if eligible — unless they previously contracted out. While newer retirees won’t qualify for this, it may still be inherited from a partner.
Over-80s Pension
People aged 80 or over who receive little or no basic State Pension may be eligible for an Over-80s Pension, worth £105.70 a week in the 2025–26 tax year.
Pension Credit
Pension Credit is one of the most under-claimed benefits and is designed to top up income for older people on low earnings. To qualify, you must have reached State Pension age and live in England, Scotland, or Wales.
Currently, weekly income must be below:
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£227.10 for single people
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£346.60 for couples
Even those earning more may still qualify if they have disabilities, caring responsibilities, housing costs, or savings. New rules mean both partners must be over State Pension age to claim, unless already receiving Pension Credit under the old system.
Claims can be made online or by calling 0800 99 1234.
Attendance Allowance
Available to people aged 66 or over who need help or supervision due to a long-term physical or mental condition. In Scotland, this is called Pension Age Disability Payment.
Crucially, eligibility depends on how your condition affects daily life — not on having a specific diagnosis. You must have needed support for at least six months, even if you didn’t actually receive it.
Carer’s Allowance
If you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week and they receive qualifying benefits, you could receive £83.30 a week. Recent rule changes mean more people may now qualify than before.
Free NHS Benefits
Everyone over 60 is entitled to:
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Free prescriptions
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Free NHS eye tests
Depending on circumstances, help may also be available for dental treatment, glasses, travel to NHS appointments, wigs, and medical supports.
Housing Benefit
Pensioners may be eligible for Housing Benefit to help cover rent, particularly if they live in supported or temporary accommodation.
Free Passport
British citizens born on or before 2 September 1929 may qualify for a free passport.
TV Licence Discounts
TV licences are free only for those receiving Pension Credit. However, people over State Pension age who are registered as blind or severely sight-impaired can receive a 50% discount.
Winter Fuel Payment
If you were born before 22 September 1959, you could receive between £100 and £300 to help with heating costs for winter 2025–26. High-income pensioners (over £35,000) will have the payment reclaimed by HMRC.
Cold Weather Payments
People on certain benefits, including Pension Credit, can receive £25 per week during periods of very cold weather between November and March.
Warm Home Discount
Low-income households or those receiving Pension Credit may qualify for a £150 electricity bill discount. The scheme has expanded for winter 2025–26, so it’s worth reapplying even if you were previously rejected.
Council Tax Reduction
Council Tax support varies by local council and depends on income, savings, household size, and personal circumstances. Some pensioners — especially those on Pension Credit — may have their bill reduced significantly or even paid in full. Single people can also claim a 25% discount.
Travel Concessions
Free or discounted travel is available across the UK:
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In England, free bus travel starts at State Pension age
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In Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, eligibility begins at age 60
Martin Lewis stresses that checking entitlement is vital, as many of these benefits go unclaimed simply because people assume they won’t qualify.
