Pensioners suffering from back or joint pain could be entitled to financial support of up to £458.40 every four weeks through Attendance Allowance or Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP). These benefits provide either £76.70 per week (lower rate) or £114.60 per week (higher rate), paid every four weeks, resulting in payments of £306.80 or £458.40 respectively.
Arthritis and Back Pain Among Top Claims
Arthritis is the most common condition claimed by over 503,800 pensioners receiving Attendance Allowance across Great Britain. Additionally, nearly 79,000 people aged over 66 claim the benefit specifically for back pain. Back pain, particularly lower back pain, is widespread; approximately 2.5 million people in the UK experience it daily. Many may not realise they could qualify for financial assistance to cover extra costs arising from their condition.
According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), nearly 1.7 million older people currently receive Attendance Allowance. In Scotland, 185,895 individuals are supported through Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP), the devolved benefit replacing new Attendance Allowance claims. An estimated 20 million people across Great Britain have arthritis or similar joint conditions, indicating a large pool of potential claimants.
Eligibility and Payment Details
Attendance Allowance and PADP are tax-free and not means-tested, meaning savings or income do not affect eligibility. Claimants can receive the lower rate if they need help during the day or night, or the higher rate if they need help both day and night, or are terminally ill. The money can be spent on anything, such as taxis, bills, or a cleaner, helping individuals remain independent at home.
To qualify, applicants must have a disability or illness requiring help or supervision throughout the day or night, even if they do not currently receive such help. This includes assistance with personal care like dressing, eating, bathing, or toileting, as well as help to stay safe. The benefit also covers mental health conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory impairments like deafness or blindness.
How to Claim Attendance Allowance or PADP
Claims for Attendance Allowance require a long form, which can be obtained via the GOV.UK website or by phone. Help is available from Citizens Advice. For PADP, applications are made through mygov.scot. It is important to note that individuals cannot receive both Attendance Allowance and PADP simultaneously. Existing claimants will be automatically transferred to PADP in Scotland.
Those approaching State Pension age might consider claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead, as it may offer higher amounts. Attendance Allowance does not affect State Pension and can be claimed while working. It may also increase other benefits like Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.
Who Cannot Claim
Individuals already receiving PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for care needs cannot claim Attendance Allowance. If applying while on DLA, the DWP will reassess the DLA award instead. When existing awards end, claimants can renew PIP or DLA, or apply for Attendance Allowance if unsuccessful.
