Scotland Pensioners Miss Out on £346 Million in Benefits

Research from the charity Independent Age reveals that nearly 200,000 pensioners in Scotland are missing out on an estimated £346 million in annual benefits. The shortfall consists of £143 million in Pension Credit, £139 million in Housing Benefit, and £64 million in Council Tax Reduction, with older Scots missing an average of £2,199 per year.

Independent Age asserts that achieving 100% take-up of these payments could lift approximately 30,000 older people out of poverty. The organization has called on both the UK and Scottish governments to improve the social security system to ensure eligible individuals receive the support they need.

In response, the Government of the United Kingdom stated that supporting pensioners is a top priority. A spokesperson highlighted that a Pension Credit take-up campaign in 2025 resulted in 33,500 additional awards, providing an average of £87 per week to those recipients. The government also noted its commitment to the triple lock, which is expected to increase yearly state pensions by £2,100 during this Parliament.