Older Brits have been urged to check that they are being given all they are entitled to, as it’s been revealed that billions of pounds available for older people on low incomes are sitting unclaimed.
Around one in six pensioners are living in poverty, though many are missing out on financial support that they could be entitled to because they assume they won’t qualify, or find it daunting and challenging to complete applications without support. However, £3 billion worth of financial aid is available to pensioners on low income.
Figures show that nearly two in five of those eligible to claim Pension Credit are missing out on an average of £50 per week, or £2,600 per year. Not only that, but many are not accessing other financial help and benefits such as Cold Weather Payments, council tax discount, help with energy costs, free TV licence for over 75s and more.
Last year, the charity helped 6,006 older people with benefit checks and applications, identifying more than £36 million in support, averaging £5,900 per person.
Now, as part of its Crisis Hiding in Plain Sight campaign, in which the charity is urging older people on low and modest incomes to check if they could claim Pension Credit, Age UK has particularly highlighted the importance of older Brits checking their finances now while the temperatures continue to plummet.
Caroline Abrahams CBE, Charity Director at Age UK, said: “During this cold snap, it’s vital for older people to stay warm and well in their homes. Increases in energy, food and rent have significantly impacted people’s standard of living and after four years, we’re still hearing harrowing stories about older people who are taking drastic measures to get by.
“For those who rely on the State Pension as their main source of income, Pension Credit can make a real difference. We urge anyone who is watching the pennies or cutting back on other daily essentials to reach out to Age UK and see what help may be available.
“A simple phone call to Age UK can open doors to lots of support for you to stay warm when it’s bitterly cold, including Cold Weather Payments if we can support you to successfully claim Pension Credit, plus the Warm Home Discount and other measures to make your home warmer if you receive Pension Credit and in certain other circumstances too.”
Age UK advises pensioners to check their eligbility for pensioner benefits, apply up to four months before reaching State Pension age, and encourage others to check too, especially those on low incomes and struggling with energy and food costs.
You can also contact the charity’s advice line on 0800 169 6565.
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