A state pension change now in force could mean claimants are losing thousands of pounds. Thousands of state pensioners are set to lose out on significant sums of Labour Party government support, campaigners are warning.
Around 26,000 unpaid carers in the UK could be losing a combined £182 million due to the rise in state pension age. The state pension age is the earliest point at which you can begin receiving state pension and other pension-age benefits from the DWP.
For unpaid carers, this will mean an additional year's wait before they can claim the pension-age equivalents of their current carer benefits. Carers UK suggests that this could result in around a £7,011 shortfall during the extra year they have to wait.
An estimated 26,000 carers who are unable to work due to their caring responsibilities will face this extended wait. This equates to approximately £134.82 per week that they will miss out on compared to unpaid carers who have already reached state pension age.
Carers UK analysis revealed that before reaching state pension age, unpaid carers may be eligible for Carer's Allowance and Universal Credit Carer Element worth around £136.68 per week. However, upon reaching state pension age, they could qualify for Pension Credit Carer Addition worth around £273.50 per week.
Emily Holzhausen CBE, Director of Policy and Public Affairs, said: "Thousands of unpaid carers provide essential support to family and friends long before reaching pension age. As one of the most under-pensioned groups in the UK, many have little choice but to care due to limited alternative support."
"We must ensure carers are properly supported as they approach retirement, particularly given the new rise in the State Pension age. This change means that those nearing retirement age will lose out significantly, especially women, who make up the majority of those affected."
"It is vital that Carer's Allowance is reviewed and strengthened, including enhanced support in the years before reaching pension age, so that those who dedicate their time to look after others are not left in poverty."
