Pensioners across the UK are being urged to act swiftly as they have just three months to respond to crucial benefit change notices from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
The warning comes as the Government continues its transition from legacy benefits to Universal Credit, with tax credits set to close in April 2025.
Over 280,000 people have already lost their financial support for failing to respond to migration notices, according to recent data.
Those affected, particularly pensioners who have been tax credit recipients, are advised to be on high alert for a letter in the post this month detailing the necessary steps to maintain their benefits.
Pensioners receiving tax credits that havev been asked to move to Pension Credit should have started receiving letters from July 2024, whereas pensioners receiving tax credits being asked to move to Universal Credit should have started receiving letters from September 2024.
The transition to Universal Credit affects six legacy benefits: income-based jobseekers allowance, income-related employment and support allowance, income support, housing benefit, child tax credit and working tax credit.
The DWP has been sending migration notices since July 2022, with over 810,000 sent by February 2024.
Pensioners receiving tax credits that havev been asked to move to Pension Credit should have started receiving letters from July 2024
PAThis year, more than two million people will be moved from legacy benefits to Universal Credit. Those under state pension age should have already received their letters, while pensioners aged 66 and over who receive tax credits were told to expect their notices in August.
The Government emphasised that individuals should not take action until they receive their official Universal Credit Migration Notice letter.
Once recipients receive their migration notice, they have a crucial three-month window to make their Universal Credit claim. This deadline can be extended if necessary, but many have reportedly missed it, potentially leaving hundreds of thousands without essential support.
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability, emphasised the importance of timely action: "Having three months to make a move may feel like a long time but life can often distract you elsewhere.
"For the best chance to secure your benefit entitlement don't delay with responding to your migration notice."
The DWP stressed that individuals should not apply for Pension Credit or Universal Credit before receiving their official notice, as this could result in losing transitional protections.
The consequences of failing to respond to migration notices are severe. According to DWP data, 277,750 people did not claim Universal Credit and had their benefits claims closed.
This represents a significant portion of the 810,230 notices sent between July 2022 and February 2024.
Michael Clarke from the anti-poverty charity Turn2us warned: "Far too many people are unable to transition to Universal Credit after receiving a migration notice.
"Benefits are often a lifeline for the people we work with and this loss of support could have severe consequences for their wellbeing."
Clarke highlighted that many legacy benefit claimants have complex needs and may lack digital access, emphasising the need for personalised support from the DWP during the transition process.
Pensioners and those approaching state pension age should remain vigilant for their migration notice letter.
Once received, they have three months to apply for Universal Credit or Pension Credit, depending on their age.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Those over state pension age will move to Pension Credit, while mixed-age couples can claim Universal Credit.
The DWP emphasised that support is available for those who need help with the transition. Individuals can find more information on the government website or contact the DWP directly for assistance.
It's crucial to wait for the official letter before taking any action to ensure eligibility for transitional protections.
The Government aims to ensure a smooth transition, with no one being worse off under Universal Credit.
