More than one million state pensioners in the United Kingdom are thought to be losing out on a weekly payment of up to £114.60. Older individuals are being urged to check if they qualify for this additional financial support.
Attendance Allowance: An Overview
According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), approximately 1.9 million Britons currently claim Attendance Allowance. This tax-free, non-means-tested benefit is available to people of State Pension age or older who require assistance at home due to a physical disability or mental health condition.
The DWP provides Attendance Allowance at two weekly rates, determined by the severity of the claimant's condition. The lower rate is £76.70 per week, which amounts to £306.80 monthly and £3,988.40 annually. The higher rate is £114.60 per week, equating to £458.40 monthly and £5,959.20 yearly.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must be over State Pension age and have required care or support for at least six months due to a physical disability, illness, or learning difficulty. However, you can claim immediately without the six-month waiting period if you are terminally ill.
Since the benefit is not means-tested, your income, savings, and investments do not affect your eligibility. Attendance Allowance is available to residents of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Those living in Scotland must apply for the Pension Age Disability Payment instead.
Payment Rates
The lower rate is for individuals who need frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night. The higher rate is for those requiring help or supervision throughout both day and night, or for those nearing the end of life.
- Lower rate: £76.70 per week (£306.80 monthly, £3,988.40 annually)
- Higher rate: £114.60 per week (£458.40 monthly, £5,959.20 annually)
Additional Benefits
Attendance Allowance can act as a gateway to other financial support. It does not reduce existing state benefits or your State Pension. Claimants are exempt from the UK Benefit Cap. It can also unlock or increase claims for Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction by adding a disability premium. Furthermore, if a friend or family member provides care for you for at least 35 hours per week, your successful claim may enable them to apply for Carer's Allowance.
How to Apply
Applications for Attendance Allowance can be made online or by post. You will need your National Insurance number, address and contact details, details of your disability or health condition, your GP surgery or medical centre information, and details of your care home, hospital, or hospice if applicable. You should receive a text or letter regarding your eligibility within three weeks of applying. An assessment may be required to determine how your condition affects your daily life.
Age UK commented: "Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision because of an illness or disability. There are two different weekly rates, and the amount you get depends on how much help you need. Any Attendance Allowance you receive doesn't necessarily need to be spent on your care. Many people spend the money on other types of help in the home, or on equipment to help them stay independent. For example, it could help you pay bills, get meals delivered or cover the cost of taxis."
