Almost all carers miss out on pension credits

An estimated 95 per cent of carers are missing out on hundreds of pounds every year because they are not claiming carer's credit, the government has said.

Ros Altman, the minister for pensions, has called on carers to check their status and ensure that they are not one of up to 200,000 people with caring responsibilities who could receive a boost to their pension, but have not signed up.

A carer who signs up for carer's credit for a year could see their state pension boosted by an extra £200 per year when they retire.

'If carers are not working full time, these credits can fill gaps in their National Insurance record, helping to bolster the amount of state pension they will receive', said Altman.

'It is straightforward to apply and doesn't cost anything. There is nothing to lose by signing up - and money to gain for the future. I'd like people to spread the word about this because I don't want to see anyone missing out.'

Only 11,000 people have so far signed up for the credit, but around 200,000 carers are thought to be eligible. The credit is designed for anyone who cares for others for 20 hours or more per week and does do not qualify for carer's allowance.

Women and older people are more likely to be affected by a lack of awareness, as women make up 65 per cent of those who are eligible. Furthermore, two-thirds of the estimated 200,000 carers who are eligible are thought to be aged 50 and over.

Atman added: 'It is important to recognise how much carers give to society, and I would like to see them receive what they're entitled to.'

Binyamin Ali is assistant editor of Private Client Adviser