Overview
- The Department for Work and Pensions has begun a letter trial to 2,000 pensioners across England with Age UK and Independent Age to encourage Pension Credit claims.
- The pilot uses new analysis to pinpoint likely-eligible non‑claimants, replacing outreach that previously targeted Housing Benefit recipients.
- The study shows take‑up highest in the North East at 71% and lowest in the South West at 55%, with England overall at 63%.
- Pension Credit averages about £4,300 a year and can unlock council tax reductions, help with housing and heating costs, and free TV licences for over‑75s.
- Up to 760,000 households were estimated eligible but not claiming in 2023–24, and a recent campaign produced 56,700 additional awards as councils such as Dorset urge residents to check eligibility and seek support.