Unclaimed benefits reach new high with households missing out on £24 billion
Experts demand welfare reform as billions in benefits go unclaimed
- New research by Policy in Practice reveals that over £24 billion in benefits will go unclaimed in the UK during 2025-2026.
- This equates to an average of £3,428 per year for each of the seven million households estimated to be missing out on vital support.
- Universal Credit accounts for nearly half of the unclaimed funds at £11.1 billion, with Council Tax Support and Carer's Allowance also making up significant portions.
- The report attributes the high level of unclaimed benefits to a lack of public awareness, the complex nature of the welfare system, and the social stigma associated with seeking support.
- Experts are calling for a more accessible and streamlined social security system, while a government spokesperson highlighted efforts to promote benefits and support people into employment.