Thousands of households across the UK could be missing out on vital financial support worth up to £1,560 annually, according to latest Department for Work and Pensions data. With the cost of living crisis continuing to squeeze budgets, claiming these overlooked benefits could provide crucial relief for struggling families.
Five Key Groups Eligible for Extra Support
Financial experts have identified several demographics regularly missing out on benefits they're legally entitled to claim. Here are the five main groups who should check their eligibility immediately:
1. Pensioners on Low Incomes
Pension Credit remains one of the most underclaimed benefits, with nearly 900,000 eligible pensioners failing to claim approximately £1.8 billion in unclaimed support. This benefit not only provides extra income but acts as a gateway to other support including council tax reductions, free TV licenses for over-75s, and help with NHS dental treatment.
2. Unpaid Carers
Around 360,000 carers are missing out on Carer's Allowance despite providing at least 35 hours of weekly care. The benefit is worth £81.90 weekly, potentially adding over £4,250 annually to household budgets. Many carers mistakenly believe they're ineligible due to working part-time or receiving other benefits.
3. Families Receiving Child Benefit
Thousands of parents claiming Child Benefit could be missing out on National Insurance credits that protect their State Pension entitlement. Ensuring these credits are properly recorded could prevent gaps in National Insurance records that might reduce future pension payments.
4. Universal Credit Claimants with Health Conditions
Those receiving Universal Credit who have health conditions affecting their work capability could be eligible for additional elements worth approximately £390 monthly. The LCWRA (Limited Capability for Work-Related Activity) component provides significant uplifts that many eligible claimants aren't receiving.
5. Homeowners on Benefits
Homeowners receiving income-related benefits might qualify for Support for Mortgage Interest loans. While these are loans rather than grants, they provide crucial help with interest payments during difficult financial periods.
How to Check Your Eligibility
Experts recommend using the government's online benefits calculators or seeking advice from organisations like Citizens Advice to ensure you're receiving everything you're entitled to. The process is simpler than many assume, and the financial impact could be substantial for households struggling with rising costs.
Martin Lewis's Money Saving Expert website regularly updates its benefits guidance, while Age UK provides specialist support for older people navigating the complex benefits system. With many families facing the toughest financial climate in decades, ensuring you receive entitled support has never been more important.
