Martin Lewis has urged pensioners to check if they are missing out on up to £3,000 a year in unclaimed benefits. The finance expert highlighted that nearly one million retirees in the UK are not claiming Pension Credit, a benefit that can unlock additional support such as a free TV licence and energy bill discounts.
According to Lewis, over 900,000 of the 2.3 million eligible pensioners are not receiving Pension Credit. He shared a success story from a reader who, after applying, saved almost £3,000 annually through reduced council tax, a free TV licence, the Warm Home Discount, and lower water bills.
Pension Credit comes in two forms: Guarantee Credit and Savings Credit. To qualify for Guarantee Credit, individuals must be of State Pension age (66) and have a weekly income below £238 for a single person or £363.25 for a couple. Higher amounts may be available for those who are disabled, carers, or have certain housing costs.
Eligibility can be checked using the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK or by calling the Pension Credit helpline on 0800 99 1234, open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm.
