Increase summer income by checking for unclaimed benefits or discounts
The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that there will be no more one-off payments to help people cope with the cost of living crisis in 2025
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirmed earlier this week that there are no plans to issue any more cost of living payments in 2025. Between 2022 and 2024, the DWP issued a series of one-off payments to help people cope with the cost of living crisis as energy bills and inflation soared to record-breaking levels.
Energy bills remain higher than they were prior to the pandemic and fluctuating inflation rates means people are still paying more for everyday food items, clothing and fuel. However, many households could be due an income boost from unclaimed benefits or discounts on Council Tax and setting aside 10 minutes this weekend to use a free, confidential benefits calculator could ease the financial pressure going into summer.
People on a low income could be entitled to a saving of up to £850 a year through the Council Tax Reduction scheme, which is only available north of the border.
The latest figures from the Scottish Government show 458,470 households (one in five) were eligible for a Council Tax Reduction in December, 2024 - full details on how to claim can be found here.
Older people on a low income may be entitled to an income boost, worth on average £4,300, through Pension Credit.
The latest figures from the DWP suggest over 700,000 people are eligible for the means-tested benefit but not claiming it, reports the Daily Record.
Some pensioners mistakenly believe that having savings or owning their home disqualifies them from receiving the means-tested benefit. However, even an award of just £1 per week can unlock additional support.
How to check eligibility for Pension Credit
Elderly individuals, or their friends and family, can swiftly verify their eligibility and get an estimate of potential benefits using the online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK here.
Alternatively, pensioners can directly contact the Pension Credit helpline to make a claim on 0800 99 1234.
Expert help and advice is also available from:
Independent Age
Income Max
Citizens Advice
Age UK
More information about claiming Pension Credit can be found on GOV.UK here.
Individuals below State Pension age with health conditions might qualify for Adult Disability Payment or Personal Independence Payment (PIP). A successful claim could yield between £29.20 and £187.45, equating to £116.80 or £749.80 every four-week pay period.
Those above State Pension age with health conditions might be eligible for Pension Age Disability Payment or Attendance Allowance. A successful claim could result in either £73.90 or £110.40 per week, amounting to £295.60 or £441.60 every four-week pay period.
While an online benefits calculator isn't a magic solution to financial concerns, it can provide a reasonably accurate estimate of potential claims - but the onus is on you to actually submit the application.
Who should check for unclaimed benefits or discounts?
There's a broad spectrum of benefits and payments you might be eligible for, so it's worth checking.
You should check if:
you are temporarily unable to work, including because of ill health
you are of working age on a low income
You are over State Pension age on a low income
you have been made redundant
you are looking for work
you are raising a family
you have a child who is disabled or has a health condition
you are disabled or have a health condition
you're caring for someone
you have lost a loved one
What is an online benefits calculator?
Online benefits calculators are handy tools that swiftly determine if you're missing out on any benefits. The best part? They're entirely free, independent, and confidential to use - so there's absolutely nothing to lose.
In just a few moments, you could discover how much additional support you might be entitled to claim. All you need to do is input details about yourself, your residential status, your employment status, and any savings you possess.
You can utilise an independent benefits calculator to find out:
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