Benefit and Pension Changes

There have been changes to the benefits system in recent years, both in Scotland and across the UK. Our Benefit and Pension Changes guide provides information on the changes most likely to affect older people.

Recent changes include the devolution of Welfare Powers to the Scottish Government. Several benefits that used to be paid by the Department for Work and Pensions are now the responsibility of Social Security Scotland. This includes benefits for people living with a disability and carer benefits.

Other changes include the introduction of Universal Credit, which replaces many older types of benefit, and upcoming changes to State Pension age. Some changes are still in progress, and you may still receive benefits that were part of the older system.

If you are unsure if you are receiving the right benefits for you, you can call the Age Scotland helpline on 0800 12 44 222 and ask for a free benefit check. You can also check your entitlements at www.age.scot/benefitscalculator.

Benefit workshops

The benefits system is complicated. It can be difficult to work out what you are entitled to, and how to claim it. Find out more about joining one of our Benefit Workshops here.