Are You Claiming All the Benefits You Are Entitled To After 60?

An estimated £23 billion in means-tested benefits goes unclaimed in the UK each year. A significant proportion of that is owed to people over 60 who either do not know the benefits exist, assume they will not qualify, or find the application process too confusing. This guide walks through the main ones worth checking.

What is Pension Credit — and why do so many people miss out on it?

Pension Credit tops up your weekly income if it falls below a certain threshold. In 2026, the threshold is £218.15 a week for a single person and £332.95 for a couple. If your income is below this, Pension Credit makes up the difference.

But Pension Credit is about much more than the top-up itself. Claiming it also unlocks:

• Free NHS dental treatment
• Help with NHS sight tests and glasses
• Cold Weather Payments (£25 for each seven-day cold snap)
• A free TV licence if you are 75 or over
• Housing Benefit (if you rent)
• Council Tax Reduction

Around 850,000 households who are entitled to Pension Credit are not claiming it. Many assume that because they have some savings or a small pension, they will not qualify — but the rules are more flexible than people realise. You can have savings and still receive some Pension Credit. Apply via GOV.UK or call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.

Could you get a Council Tax Reduction?

Council Tax Reduction (formerly Council Tax Benefit) is run by local councils and can reduce your bill by up to 100%. The rules vary by council, but most offer significant reductions for people on low incomes or certain benefits.

Additionally, if you live alone, you are automatically entitled to a 25% Single Person Discount — regardless of your income. If everyone in your household is severely mentally impaired (such as advanced dementia), you may qualify for a full exemption. Contact your local council to check and apply.

What is Attendance Allowance — and do you need to be in a care home to claim it?

Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit for people aged 65 or over who need help with personal care or supervision due to a physical or mental disability. You do not need to be in a care home — most recipients live in their own homes.

In 2026, it pays either £73.90 or £110.40 a week depending on how much help you need. You do not need to have someone actually providing that care — the benefit is based on your need, not whether care is being received.

Crucially, receiving Attendance Allowance can also unlock Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction if you were previously just above the threshold. Apply via GOV.UK or Age UK can help you fill in the form.

Are you entitled to free prescriptions?

In England, everyone aged 60 or over is entitled to free NHS prescriptions. If you are under 60, you may still be exempt if you have a qualifying medical condition — including diabetes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and several others. Ask your GP surgery for an exemption certificate (FP92A form).

In Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free for everyone regardless of age.

What help is available with heating and energy costs?

The Winter Fuel Payment is currently under review, but as of 2026 it remains available to those receiving Pension Credit or other qualifying means-tested benefits. Cold Weather Payments of £25 are triggered automatically when temperatures drop to freezing for seven consecutive days, and are paid to those on certain benefits.

The Warm Home Discount provides a £150 rebate off your electricity bill each winter. Eligibility is determined by your energy supplier and whether you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit. Contact your energy supplier to check.

What about help with housing costs?

If you rent your home and are on a low income, you may be entitled to Housing Benefit (if you are pension age) or the housing element of Universal Credit (if you are working age). These can make a substantial difference — particularly if you live in an area with high rents.

If you own your home and claim Pension Credit, you may be eligible for Support for Mortgage Interest — a government loan that covers mortgage interest payments. It is repaid when you sell or transfer the property.

How do you find out what you are entitled to?

The fastest way is to use an online benefits calculator. entitledto.co.uk and turn2us.org.uk both run free, independent calculators that take around ten minutes to complete. They cover all major benefits and will flag anything you might be missing.

Age UK also offers free, impartial advice by phone (0800 678 1602) or at local Age UK centres — including help completing application forms.