Many pensioners in the UK are missing out on significant benefits they are entitled to. A recent study by Age UK and the Rothesay Foundation highlights the need for older adults to access crucial financial support.
State Pensioners Claim Your £6,600 Benefits Before December Ends!
By Chourouk Derkaoui
Published on 27 November 2024 13:46
Pensioners across the UK are being encouraged to claim a staggering total of £6,600 in benefits that they are entitled to but have yet to access. A recent study conducted by the charity Age UK in collaboration with the Rothesay Foundation revealed that 76% of pensioners are missing out on vital benefits, with an average loss of £6,600 per individual.
Importance of Claiming Benefits
The most commonly unclaimed benefits include Pension Credit, Attendance Allowance, and Housing Benefit. Those who initiate a new claim for any of these benefits now could start receiving funds as early as December.
| Benefit | Description | Eligibility | Average Annual Loss | Percentage Missing Out |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pension Credit | A financial support for low-income individuals of state pension age. | Income below £218/week (single) or £332/week (couple). | £4,910 | 37% |
| Attendance Allowance | Support for those needing extra help due to disabilities or health conditions. | Must be of state pension age with relevant needs. | £5,830 | 66% |
| Housing Benefit | Assistance with housing costs, available despite the transition to Universal Credit. | Varies based on income and housing situation. | £6,319 | 17% |
The Impact of Support on Pensioners
Paul Farmer, CEO of Age UK, stated, “To date, we’ve already helped over 4,500 older people identify their benefit entitlements, and over the next two years we hope to reach even more. From our conversations with older people, we know how life-changing this support can be.
Many are forced to make impossible choices between heating, eating, buying warm clothes, or even getting a small Christmas gift for a loved one. Older people deserve better. We are deeply grateful to the Rothesay Foundation for its generosity and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of older people.”
James Dickson, Chairman of the Rothesay Foundation, emphasized, “Too many older people are living in need in the UK despite being eligible and entitled to greater financial support. Through our pilot campaign with Age UK, we know that benefits like Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance can be life-changing, unlocking potentially thousands of pounds each year for those in need.”