Pensioners due £2,600 in extra benefits and freebies this winter

With many pensioners facing losing Winter Fuel Payments this year, there are a myriad of other benefits, freebies and cash boosts that could help fill the hole in their budget. However, unlike the Winter Fuel Payments, many of these will not be automatic, meaning some might miss out on their lesser-known entitlements.

Age UK highlighted that millions of pounds go unclaimed each year, as the charity urged people to claim every penny they’re entitled to and maximise the handouts or discounts they’re eligible for. Starting with the more seasonal payments, Age UK pointed out many pensioners might be unknowingly eligible for the Warm Homes Discount.

This £150 discount is applied to your bills by your energy supplier. It will usually be automatic but pensioners in Scotland on a low income may need to apply for the discount, individual suppliers in the country may also have differing qualifying criteria so it will be worth double-checking your eligibility.

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Next up, the Cold Weather Payments is not exclusive to pensioners but it is an automatic payment if you’re claiming Pension Credit, Income Support, Universal Credit or a few other qualifying benefits. This £25 payment is triggered if your postcode experiences temperatures at zero degrees Celsius or lower for seven consecutive days.

In terms of DWP benefits, there are a few which only those above the state pension age will be eligible, including Attendance Allowance. Despite the name, you do not need to have an attendant or carer to be eligible for this benefit.

Offering a potential of £434 a month, this benefit aims to cover the added cost of being disabled and the rates will differ depending on how much assistance you need either from other people or medical aids. According to the charity there are 56 categories of conditions that are eligible for the benefit.

Many people have been recently made aware of Pension credit and the £3,900 it potentially offers claimants due to the new Winter Fuel Payment eligibility rules. However, aside from the primary financial support it provides, Pension Credits also acts as a “gateway” to a number of other benefits, freebies and support such as the £200 or £300 Winter Fuel Payment.

As for year-round underclaimed freebies, Age UK pointed out many pensioners may be eligible for Council Tax discounts if they’re on a low income or claiming certain benefits. The amount of discount a household receives will differ largely depending on your local council but could range from £300 to £1,600 discount per year.

Pensioners over the age of 75 who claim Pension Credit can also receive free TV licences, saving £169.50 a year - but it does not stop there. If you have been eligible for a free TV licence but were unaware, you could be due a refund for your licence fees. This will be calculated as part of your application to the TV Licensing authority.