The government has announced changes to arrangements concerning Universal Credit and pension arrangements that it says will help 200,000 people.
Speaking in the House of Commons today, Work and Pensions Secretary Dr Therese Coffey pledged more support to Universal Claimants who are moving onto pensioner benefits.
She said the government is putting an extra £70m into this area over the next five years in a bid to create a 'run-on' and 'smooth the transition' between Universal Credit and specific benefits for those of a pensionable age.
Speaking in Parliament, she said: "I can today announce that we will amend regulations to smooth the transition from Universal Credit to pensioner benefits and remove any potential gap in support.
"All those who reach State Pension Age while claiming Universal Credit will receive a run-on, meaning that they can receive a payment for the entire Assessment Period in which they reach State Pension Age.
"Entitlement to pensioner benefits and State Pension is unaffected and continues as usual.
"This ensures there is no gap in benefit provision as people approach State Pension Age."
Dr Coffey said she believes the move will benefit approximately 200,000 pensioners, who will benefit by an average of £350 from this run-on at a cost of around £70 million over the next five years.
SHe added: "This process is already in operation on an extra statutory basis, ensuring that nobody loses out upon reaching State Pension Age, and legislation will be amended accordingly later this year."
