Eligible for share of £1.97bn benefits that half don't claim

Around 1.65 million people in the UK are eligible for a council tax reduction but are not claiming it, according to Policy in Practice and the Independent Age charity. The groups estimate that about half of pensioners miss out, leaving as much as £1.97 billion in benefits unclaimed. Average Band D council tax bills are £2,392 in England, £2,283 in Wales and £1,653 in Scotland, and local authorities set rules for those below pension age. For those over state pension age (66), eligibility can come via guarantee credit under pension credit, which can mean up to 100% off, or through a partial reduction for low income and savings under £16,000. The charities say many people incorrectly believe Pension Credit is required, even though 900,000 pensioners not on it qualify. Claims are handled by local councils.