Could you be missing out on unclaimed benefits?
One of the reasons is that many people don't realise they qualify for them.
Benefits and other government support are not just for those who are out of work. Millions of households on low incomes are also losing out.
The most recent estimate by benefits experts at entitledto was that about £15 billion was not being claimed.
Types of benefit
Government support that's going unclaimed includes:
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Child benefit
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Pension credit
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Council tax support
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Universal credit
What is child benefit?
If you’re responsible for bringing up a child who’s under 16, or under 20 in approved education or training, you’ll get child benefit. This is an allowance that’s paid to you for each child (usually every 4 weeks).
There’s no limit to how many children you can claim child benefit for. Only 1 person can get this benefit for a child.
What is pension credit?
If you’re over state pension age and on a low income, pension credit can give you extra money to help with living costs.
The charity Independent Age says almost 4 in 10 people in the UK are missing out on pension credit payments they are entitled to.
There are 2 types of pension credit:
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Guarantee credit: this is a payment that tops up your income to a set amount for single people and couples
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Savings credit: this is available to people who reached state pension age before 6 April 2016 and have some savings
You’ll need to meet the eligibility criteria to claim pension credit. The amount you receive is based on:
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Your income
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Any savings or investments
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Whether you are single or in a couple
If you receive pension credit, you may also be able to claim other benefits. These can include a free TV licence and a council tax reduction. You can apply for pension credit online, over the phone or by post up to 4 months before you reach state pension age. Your application can also be backdated 3 months.
What is council tax support?
If you’re eligible, council tax support (also known as council tax reduction) can give you a discount on your bill. For example, you may be able to claim a council tax discount if you live alone.
Each council has its own scheme for council tax support. The amount you could get can vary depending on where you live.
There’s a different scheme in Northern Ireland.
What is universal credit?
Universal credit is a payment made by the government to help with living costs. It’s usually paid monthly. In Scotland you can choose to have it paid twice a month.
It was brought in to replace benefits, including housing benefit, child tax credit, income support and working tax credit.
Universal credit is made up of a standard allowance and any extra elements you are eligible for. These include housing, childcare and disability. Your payment may be reduced if you have more than £6,000 in money, savings or investments. If you are under state pension age, the amount saved in your pension pot won’t affect how much universal credit you’re entitled to.
You can apply for universal credit on the GOV.UK website, or nidirect.gov.uk if you live in Northern Ireland.
To apply online, you’ll need:
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An email address
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Access to a phone
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Your bank, building society, or credit union account details
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Proof of identity, such as a driving license, passport or debit card
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Details of your housing costs, income, savings, childcare costs, and health conditions
Universal credit is paid in arrears. You can apply for an advance payment if you don’t have enough to live on while you wait.
How to check your eligibility
You can check your eligibility using this free calculator:
Find out what benefits you're entitled to
The calculator gives an estimate of any benefits you might qualify for and how to apply for them.
The calculator can help you feel more confident about your finances.
It’s free to use and should only take 10 minutes to complete. You just enter details such as your income, dependent children and housing costs.
The details you give are anonymous and entitledto doesn't collect any personal data, unless you choose to submit it.
Summary
Billions of pounds in government support go unclaimed every year because people don’t realise they qualify. By checking your eligibility, you can make sure you receive the financial help you’re entitled to. Use online calculators to review your options and gather your financial details to start your application today.
We’ve made every effort to make sure this information is accurate but please make your own checks before doing anything.
This article was last updated on 15/06/2026, 08:38
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