State pensioners could be entitled to benefits and discounts worth thousands

A total of 13 million people are over the state pension age of 66 - yet only 1.7 million are receiving the full new state pension of £230.25 per week. That leaves potentially millions unaware of the additional support, benefits and discounts available to them in their retirement years.

The official MoneyHelper website has put together a comprehensive list of the perks that could supplement your retirement, without impacting state pension payments, the . This includes verifying your state pension.

Recent mistakes have resulted in people being underpaid by thousands in their state pensions, so it's advisable to check your National Insurance record and ensure there are no unexpected gaps or issues. You need a full 35 years of contributions to receive the £230.25 per week and at least 10 to qualify for any of the new state pension.

If you're not receiving the full state pension, you might be eligible for Pension Credit. It is currently one of the most underclaimed benefits, with eligible individuals missing out on approximately £1.5 billion each year.

This income supplement can add £4,300 each year and also provide access to a variety of other benefits and discounts, such as a free TV licence for those over 75.

Gov.uk offers a which can help determine if you're eligible for this support.

A variety of health benefits can help offset the additional costs associated with illnesses and disabilities, some of which are exclusively for people over the state pension age.

If you had already claimed PIP or DLA before reaching the state pension age, you might still be eligible to receive it once you reach retirement depending on your award length.

On the other hand, Attendance Allowance is only available past the age of 66, and provides between £73.90 and £110.40 per week, depending on the level of assistance or supervision you need.

Beyond the benefits system, a host of social tariffs and discounts on essential items are available for those over the state pension age. This can include assistance with council tax, whether you rent or own your property.

If you receive a disability or carer's benefit you may be entitled to a larger council tax reduction and the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit could even cover your entire council tax bill.

One lesser-known discount for those over the state pension age is a free passport.

To qualify, you must have been born on or before 2 September 1929 and be a British national.

Lastly, a variety of travel concessions and schemes are available to those aged 60 and above. These include the 60+ London Oyster photocard, the Freedom Pass, Senior Railcards and free bus passes.