Over 7 million households in the UK are missing out on an estimated £24 billion in unclaimed benefits, according to a new report from Policy in Practice. The unclaimed support includes Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and Carer's Allowance, leaving many families without crucial financial help during the summer months.
Key Findings from the Report
The report highlights that 761,000 pensioners are not claiming Pension Credit, while 1,671,000 working-age adults are missing out on Universal Credit. Additionally, 553,000 individuals are eligible for Carer's Allowance but not receiving it, and 742,000 families are failing to claim Child Benefit. Although take-up has improved slightly—from 63% to 65%—the overall situation remains challenging.
Policy in Practice stated: "The system remains fragmented and too many people struggle to access the support they are eligible for. More than £24billion is still going unclaimed each year, and that does not include disability support such as Personal Independence Payment, or discretionary schemes like the new Crisis and Resilience Fund."
Expert Reaction
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." She added that reforms must prioritize rebuilding trust in the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
How to Check for Unclaimed Benefits
Households can use free, confidential benefits calculators to determine eligibility for support. A quick 15-minute check could reveal entitlements to Council Tax Reduction, which can save up to £900 a year in Scotland. Older people on low incomes may qualify for Pension Credit, worth an average of £4,300 per year, and even a small award can unlock additional help.
To check eligibility for Pension Credit, visit the GOV.UK calculator or call the helpline at 0800 99 1234. Organizations like Independent Age, Income Max, Citizens Advice, and Age UK also offer expert advice.
Other Financial Support Available
People under State Pension age with health conditions may 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 could claim Pension Age Disability Payment or Attendance Allowance, with weekly rates of £76.70 or £114.60.
The report also encourages checking for Council Tax discounts, such as the £950 discount available to some households. A full list of cost of living help in Scotland is available, including payments only Scots can claim.
Who Should Check?
Anyone who is temporarily unable to work, on a low income, over State Pension age, recently redundant, looking for work, raising a family, caring for someone, or disabled should use a benefits calculator. It is also advisable for those who have lost a loved one.
Online calculators from Advice Direct Scotland, Turn2us, Entitledto, and Policy in Practice can quickly estimate entitlements. Before starting, gather details about savings, income, existing benefits, outgoings, and your latest Council Tax bill.
