The great benefit gap – do you claim enough?
One in five pensioners isn’t claiming the benefits to which they’re entitled. And each year, up to £2.2 billion of benefits goes unclaimed by older people.
Those statistics have been shared recently by support groups Independent Age and Age UK. Both organisations are encouraging older people to check their benefits status.
Many people miss out on extra money they could be getting
‘A lot of people miss out on extra money they could be getting,’ said Independent Age. ‘It’s well worth checking whether you might be entitled to more than you currently claim.’
Independent Age have published an advice and resources centre on their website. The page offers guidance on a number of benefits from Attendance Allowance to Pension Credit – with a Benefit Checker to help people find out exactly what they can claim.
In addition, a free guide called Moneywise tells readers how to boost their income and save money. Copies can be ordered free of charge, downloaded as a PDF, or even played online as audio files.
For further guidance, enquirers are invited to call Independent Age’s freephone helpline on 0800 319 6789. The organisation said they will aim to provide advice or support directly, or point the person in the right direction.
Age UK also offer an information and advice page on their website. Their list covers a whole range of benefits from Carer’s Allowance to Cold Weather Payment.
More detailed factsheets are offered for those who want further information
The organisation has an online library of information guides that are short and easy to digest, giving an overview of relevant topics. More detailed factsheets are offered for those who want further information.
Both Age UK and Independent Age have published a Benefits Calculator to show what people are entitled to claim
For those who want to speak to someone about benefits, Age UK provide support through a free advice line on 0800 055 6112. They also have specialist advisers at over 140 local Age UKs. (Photo: Shutterstock)
