Over 7 million households in the UK are missing out on a combined £24 billion in unclaimed benefits, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and Carer’s Allowance, according to the latest report from Policy in Practice. However, the report also indicates that take-up is improving in some areas, most notably for Pension Credit, with official figures showing a rise from 63% to 65%. Despite this progress, the overall picture remains challenging.
Key Findings from Policy in Practice Report
The report highlights that 761,000 pensioners are missing out on Pension Credit, 1,671,000 working-age adults are not claiming Universal Credit, 553,000 are missing Carer’s Allowance, and 742,000 families are not receiving Child Benefit. Claire Atchia McMaster, Director of Income and External Affairs at Turn2us, commented: “At Turn2us, we hear from people every day who feel like they’re being locked out of a system that should be supporting them. This new research exposes the consequences of a complex social security system that demoralises people and treats them like children when they try to access support.”
Council Tax Reduction: A Key Saving for Scottish Households
People on a low income in Scotland may be entitled to a saving of up to £900 a year through the Council Tax Reduction scheme. The latest figures from the Scottish Government show that nearly half a million households (one in five) were eligible for a Council Tax Reduction in October. Full details on how to claim are available online.
Pension Credit: Average Boost of £4,300
Older people on a low income may be entitled to an income boost worth on average £4,300 through Pension Credit. The DWP suggests 760,000 people are eligible but not claiming it. Some pensioners mistakenly believe that having savings or owning their home disqualifies them, but even an award of £1 per week unlocks other support. Pensioners can check eligibility using the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK or by calling the helpline at 0800 99 1234.
Disability Benefits: Up to £194.60 per Week
People under State Pension age with health conditions could be eligible for Adult Disability Payment or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), worth between £30.30 and £194.60 per week. Those over State Pension age may qualify for Pension Age Disability Payment or Attendance Allowance, worth £76.70 or £114.60 per week.
How to Use an Online Benefits Calculator
An online benefits calculator can quickly estimate your entitlement. It is free, independent, and confidential. You will need details about your savings, income, existing benefits, outgoings, and Council Tax bill. Calculators are available from Advice Direct Scotland, Turn2us, Entitledto, and Policy in Practice. Advice Direct Scotland’s tool is the first to fully integrate devolved benefits including Scottish Child Payment and Adult Disability Payment.
Who Should Check?
You should check if you are temporarily unable to work, on a low income, over State Pension age, made redundant, looking for work, raising a family, caring for someone, disabled, or have lost a loved one. Taking just 15 minutes could ease financial pressure this summer.
