UK launches campaign to address unclaimed Pension Credit

A new government campaign and a week of action are being launched in the United Kingdom to encourage eligible pensioners to claim Pension Credit. Estimates suggest that approximately 35% of eligible households fail to claim their full entitlement, leaving up to £2.5 billion unclaimed annually.

Pension Credit provides a significant income boost, averaging more than £4,500 per year. Officials are working to dispel common misconceptions, such as the belief that homeownership, savings, or private pensions disqualify individuals from receiving support. In fact, homeownership is not factored into entitlement calculations, and the first £10,000 of savings is ignored.

Securing Pension Credit can also trigger access to additional benefits, including Winter Fuel Payments, Council Tax reductions, Housing Benefit, and support for NHS charges. As part of the awareness drive, 660,000 leaflets will be distributed in specific areas, including Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester, and Stockton-on-Tees, to ensure low-income households do not miss out on vital financial assistance.