The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has reminded nearly 1.7 million Attendance Allowance claimants that they must promptly report any changes in their circumstances or risk court action or financial penalties. The benefit, which provides weekly payments of £73.90 or £110.40 to older people with disabilities, requires recipients to notify the DWP if their health condition changes, if they are admitted to hospital, or if they move into a care home.
According to official guidance, changes that must be reported include going into hospital, moving into a care home, leaving the country for more than four weeks, or if the claimant's condition deteriorates or improves. The DWP warns: "You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances."
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, meaning savings and other income do not affect eligibility. It is also tax-free and does not reduce the State Pension. Claimants can use the money as they wish, and it may even increase entitlement to other benefits such as Pension Credit or Housing Benefit.
From April 7, the lower rate of £73.90 per week is for those who need help during the day or night, while the higher rate of £110.40 is for those needing help both day and night or who are terminally ill. Payments are made every four weeks, equating to £295.60 or £441.60 per pay period.
Recipients unsure whether a change affects their benefit are advised to contact the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122, Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm. Full details are available on GOV.UK.
