Carers UK is concerned that pensioners who are unpaid carers and on low incomes will struggle this winter if they don’t get Pension Credit along with a second top-up called Carer Addition
Pensioners who provide unpaid care for a family member or friend could be missing out on crucial financial support and access to Winter Fuel Payments due to benefit red tape rules, according to Carers UK. The charity is particularly concerned about pensioners who are unpaid carers and on low incomes, as they may struggle this winter if they don’t receive Pension Credit along with a second top-up called Carer Addition.
Currently, only 100,000 unpaid carers who are pensioners receive Pension Credit and the Carer Addition, and the charity fears that many more could be missing out. As a result, it is urging pensioners to check their eligibility for additional support and is providing information to help carers better understand Pension Credit and the extra top up for unpaid carers.
"For pensioners who are unpaid carers, understanding your entitlements is complicated. We’re worried that many more carers will be missing out, but we just don’t know how many." For individuals who have reached the state pension age, claiming Pension Credit can help to boost their income if it's low, up to a guaranteed minimum amount set by the Government. Unpaid carers might be eligible for a higher minimum amount as an extra sum of money known as the Carers Addition is included in the Pension Credit calculation. To receive this carer top-up to Pension Credit, carers must first apply for Carer’s Allowance.
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