Many older people in the UK are not receiving all the financial support available to them.
Each year, billions of pounds go unclaimed. The government has a range of entitlements designed to assist with living costs, healthcare, home care, and more.
With so many options and eligibility criteria, navigating this landscape can be overwhelming.
Fortunately, entitlement checkers and calculators can make this process easier, helping people receive what they are entitled to.
You could get a range of entitlements if you’re State Pension age and if you have an illness or disability. The extra money could really help you with the cost of living or for your care.
Some important entitlements include: Pension Credit: This top-up payment can provide up to £218.15 per week for single claimants and up to £332.95 per week for couples.
Housing Benefit: This assistance can help older adults with rent costs.
Attendance Allowance: If you need help with personal care due to a health condition, you can claim between £75.65 to £108.55 per week, depending on your level of need.
You could also be missing out on: Carer’s Allowance, Cold Weather Payment, Winter Fuel Payment, Constant Attendance Allowance, Council Tax Reduction, Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.
Despite their availability, many older people remain unaware of what they could qualify for. This lack of information can lead to missing out on crucial financial support. A checker can help identify which applications can gain access to various financial aids and assistance.
So, what is a checker? A checker is an online tool designed to help individuals assess their eligibility for various entitlements.
By answering a series of questions, people can get a customised estimate of which entitlements they may qualify for. This tool is particularly useful for people, who may find bureaucratic systems challenging.
Checkers are usually free to use, providing quick and easy insights into financial support eligibility.
They consider individual circumstances such as age, disability status, and income to give a clear picture of entitlements.
Find a credible checker, such as: Gov.uk www.gov.uk/benefits-calculators
Age UK – 0800 6781602 www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/money-legal/benefits-calculator
Citizens Advice – 0808 2231133 www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/benefits-introducuction/what-benefits-can-i-get/
Turn 2 Us – 0808 8022000 benefits-calculator.turn2us.org.uk/
If you or someone you know is unsure about their eligibility for entitlements, encourage them to explore these tools.
It’s never too late to uncover support that could make a substantial difference.
Rodney Sadd
Unite, union delegate, South Holland and The Deepings CLP
