A recent report has revealed that eight out of ten pensioners in the UK are missing out on vital financial support, leaving thousands of pounds unclaimed each year. The study, conducted by retirement specialists Just Group, highlights how the failure to claim means-tested benefits is depriving pensioners of an average of £1,807 annually. In some cases, households are losing out on as much as £7,560 a year in unclaimed benefits, a staggering figure that could provide much-needed relief amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
With billions of pounds of unclaimed benefits at stake, experts are urging older people to check their eligibility for Pension Credit, Council Tax Reduction, and other forms of support. This article outlines who qualifies, how to apply, and the potential impact on pensioners’ finances.
The Scale of Under-Claiming Among Pensioners
According to the Just Group report, more than 760,000 pensioner households in the UK are failing to claim the benefits they’re entitled to. For many, this oversight stems from a lack of awareness or the mistaken belief that owning a home disqualifies them from receiving state support. Stephen Lowe, communications director at Just Group, described the findings as “scandalous,” highlighting how unclaimed benefits could make a tangible difference in pensioners’ lives.
Key Findings from the Report:
- 79% of pensioner homeowners eligible for benefits are not claiming any support.
- The average household misses out on £1,807 annually in unclaimed benefits.
- Nearly 10% of claimants who are receiving benefits are underpaid, losing an average of £2,915 per year.
For pensioners struggling to make ends meet, these figures underscore the importance of checking eligibility and claiming all available financial assistance.
The Role of Pension Credit
Pension Credit remains the primary means-tested benefit for older people, providing vital financial support to low-income households. However, it is also one of the most under-claimed benefits, with 90% of eligible pensioners failing to apply. This oversight has led to an estimated £1.5 billion in unclaimed benefits, equating to £1,900 annually per household.
Pension Credit comes in two parts:
- Guarantee Credit: Tops up weekly income to a minimum level of £218.15 for a single person or £332.95 for couples.
- Savings Credit: Provides additional support for those with modest savings or income, offering up to £17.01 per week for singles and £19.04 for couples.
These amounts may be higher for individuals with disabilities, carers, or specific housing costs. Additionally, Pension Credit acts as a gateway to other benefits, including:
- Free TV licences for those aged 75 and over.
- Council Tax discounts.
- Support for heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme and Winter Fuel Payments.
The Financial Impact of Missing Out
The financial implications of failing to claim benefits are stark. The report highlights cases where pensioners lost out on thousands of pounds each year simply because they didn’t know they qualified. In one instance, a couple in Suffolk in their 70s was found to be eligible for £7,560 annually, consisting of:
- £95.26 per week from Guaranteed Pension Credit.
- £19.04 per week from Savings Credit.
- £31.07 per week from Council Tax Reduction.
Such examples illustrate the life-changing impact that claiming benefits can have, particularly for low-income pensioners struggling with rising bills.
Barriers to Claiming Benefits
Several factors contribute to the under-claiming of pensioner benefits:
- Lack of Awareness: Many pensioners are unaware of the benefits available to them.
- Misconceptions About Eligibility: Homeownership or modest savings are often incorrectly believed to disqualify claimants.
- Complex Application Processes: Some pensioners find the system confusing or overwhelming, deterring them from applying.
How to Check Your Eligibility
Older people, their families, and caregivers are encouraged to check eligibility using the Pension Credit Calculator on the GOV.UK website. This tool provides a quick estimate of potential benefits based on income, savings, and other factors.
To apply for Pension Credit, individuals will need:
- Their National Insurance number.
- Details of income, savings, and investments.
- Bank account information for payments.
Applications can be made online, by phone, or via post. The DWP helpline is available at 0800 99 1234 for additional assistance.
What’s Next for Pensioners?
The Just Group report serves as a wake-up call for pensioners to take action and claim the benefits they’re entitled to. With billions of pounds left unclaimed, older people are urged to review their financial situations and explore the support available to them.
For those navigating the complexities of the benefits system, organisations like Age UK, Citizens Advice, and Independent Age offer free guidance to ensure that no one misses out on the financial help they deserve.
By acting now, pensioners can unlock thousands of pounds in additional income, providing much-needed relief in today’s challenging economic climate.
