Older people urged to check their finances after cold spell

Following the recent cold weather, Age UK is reminding older people to check their finances and make sure they are receiving all the financial help they’re entitled to.

As part of Age UK’s Crisis Hiding in Plain Sight campaign, the Charity is urging older people on low and modest incomes to check if they could claim Pension Credit – a vital pensioner benefit that tops up weekly income and opens the doors to extra financial support.

Around one in six – equivalent to 1.9 million - pensioners live in poverty yet many older people miss out on financial support simply because they assume they won’t qualify, or find it daunting and difficult to complete applications without help.  

The latest available statistics[i] show nearly 2 in 5 of those eligible to claim Pension Credit – 38%, equivalent to 1 million pensioners[ii] – are missing out on average £50 per week or £2600 per year, with many also not accessing other passported benefits such as Cold Weather payments, council tax discount, help with energy costs, a free TV licence for over 75s and more. 

Caroline Abrahams CBE, Charity Director at Age UK said: “During this cold snap, it’s vital for older people to stay warm and well in their homes.

“Increases in energy, food and rent have significantly impacted people’s standard of living and after four years, we’re still hearing harrowing stories about older people who are taking drastic measures to get by.

“For those who rely on the State Pension as their main source of income,[iii]Pension Credit can make a real difference. We urge anyone who is watching the pennies or cutting back on other daily essentials to reach out to Age UK and see what help may be available.

“A simple phone call to Age UK can open doors to lots of support for you to stay warm when it's bitterly cold, including Cold Weather Payments if we can support you to successfully claim Pension Credit, plus the Warm Home Discount and other measures to make your home warmer if you receive Pension Credit and in certain other circumstances too.” 

In 2025, Age UK’s national Advice Line helped 6,006 older people with benefit checks and applying for benefits, identifying more than £36m of support – averaging at £5900 per person.

Successfully claiming Pension Credit in particular, can be transformational for any older person whose low fixed income is failing to keep pace with the cost of living. That’s why Age UK urges every pensioner to do three things:  

• Check your eligibility for Pension Credit and other pensioner benefits. 
• Apply early — you can apply up to 4 months before you reach State Pension age. 
• Encourage others to check too, especially those on low incomes or struggling with energy and food costs. 

Age UK urges anyone who’s struggling and worried about extra costs this winter to contact Age UK’s Advice Line on 0800 169 6565 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/benefits for support. The Advice Line is open 365 days a year (8am – 7pm). Local Age UKs also offer tailored services and support. To find your nearest visit: Age UK services in your area