Pensioners and their families are being urged to apply for Pension Credit after fresh numbers revealed that an estimated £1.7 billion in benefits has gone unclaimed.

Pension Credit is now received by approximately 1.4 million retirees in the United Kingdom. However, many people are still not taking advantage of this extra financial assistance, which may amount to almost £3,300 each year.

As part of a new advertising campaign, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) hosted its second annual Pension Credit Day of Action today.

The DWP will also distribute flyers to local communities, and businesses may participate in the campaign by using the department’s digital toolbox to spread the news to their clients and urging them to phone the claim line between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The campaign also addresses several common misconceptions about applying for Pension Credit, such as the debunking of the notion that having funds, a pension, or property ownership are requirements.

It also reminds people that even a little award can open the door to a variety of other benefits, such as assistance with housing costs, council tax, and heating bills. This includes the right to a free television licence for persons over 75.

Pension Credit increases a person’s weekly income to a minimum of £182.60 for single retirees and £278.70 for couples.

Minister for Pensions Guy Opperman said: “We recognise the challenges some pensioners will be facing with the cost of living which is why promoting Pension Credit is a priority.

“We’re calling on everyone with retired family, friends and loved ones to check in with them and see if they can get this extra financial support, which could make a huge difference to people’s everyday lives.”

Martin Lewis, founder and chair of MoneySavingExpert.com, said: Amidst the cost of living crisis, it’s a national tragedy that getting on for a million pensioners are missing out on a major income boost.

“My simple rule of thumb is if you (or someone you know) are aged 66 or older, and have total income of under roughly £200 a week, get online or call the Pension Credit claim line to see if you’re due a payment that can be as much as £3,300 a year.

“I’m not saying everyone will get it, but many will, and it only takes a few minutes to find out. So don’t stall, just call.

“And not only is this serious money, it’s also often a gateway entitlement that means you’re due a range of other support, such as council tax reductions, the £650 extra energy funding help, warm home discount, housing benefit, dental and optical treatments and, for the over-75s, a free TV licence. So again, don’t stall, just call!”