New data published today by UK national anti-poverty charity Turn2us reveals £9.6billion in Universal Credit is currently left unclaimed by households who are entitled to extra help
Millions of UK households are being urged to check if they’re missing out on billions of pounds in unclaimed benefits and financial support.
New data published today by UK national anti-poverty charity Turn2us reveals £9.6billion in Universal Credit is currently left unclaimed by households who are entitled to extra help.
Universal Credit standard allowance is worth £628.10 a month if you’re in a couple and both aged over 25. Over the year, this benefit would be worth £7,537.20.
You may be entitled to less than this if you are employed or have deductions, or your claim may be higher if you have children and are entitled to extra amounts.
There is also £588million in Carer’s Allowance going unclaimed, and over £636million missed in New-Style Jobseeker’s Allowance. Turn2us today revealed that over 1.5 million users of its free online benefits calculator – 60% of people in total who used it – found they were eligible for benefits they weren’t claiming.
Anna Stevenson, Benefits Expert at Turn2us, said: “Our data shows that there is support available for many, but all too often it’s difficult to find. The Turn2us Benefits Calculator cuts through the confusion. It’s fast, free and completely anonymous.
“Just a few minutes could help you uncover extra cash you didn’t even know you could claim. We know it’s tough right now, especially with back-to-school costs stacking up and household bills climbing. Don’t wait until things get harder – check now and ease the pressure on your family.”
Check if you are entitled to benefits
It is a common misconception that you need to be out of work to claim benefits. There is help available for those who are on low incomes, plus support for those who care for a relative, and those with health issues.
For example, you may be able to claim Universal Credit if you’re out of work, or you’re on a low income. If you’re sick or disabled, you may be able to claim benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Turn2us has a free benefits calculator to help you work out if you are entitled to help. You’ll need to input information about your living situation, your employment status, any savings you have, and if you currently already receive any benefits.
If the calculator shows you may be eligible for support, you can either put in a claim for the relevant benefit yourself, or get help by contacting Turn2us.
It comes after the DWP confirmed millions of people will receive their benefits or state pension early this weekend due to the August bank holiday, which falls this Monday, August 25.
If you are due a payment on this date, then you should receive the money into your bank account on Friday, August 22 instead. This does mean you’ll need to make the cash last a bit longer as there will be a slightly bigger gap until your next benefit payment.
This applies to all the main benefits including Universal Credit, Child Benefit, State Pension, Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, and Disability Living Allowance.