The Department for Work and Pensions has released the latest figures
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled the latest stats, showing that by the end of May 2024, a whopping 1.6 million seniors are reaping the benefits of Attendance Allowance.
For those eager to apply this summer, it’s key to check out the fresh guidance on GOV.UK, which now states that the new online service will handle just a “limited number of applications each week” and isn’t compatible with mobiles or tablets – you’ll need a desktop or laptop to access it.
You can also get the Attendance Allowance form from GOV.UK to post off, or give the helpline a ring at 0800 731 0122 to get one sent to you. Remember, when sending it back, just jot down the Freepost address on your envelope – no need for a postcode or stamps, reports the Daily Record.
A DWP spokesperson said: “We are temporarily testing a new online service to make claiming Attendance Allowance easier and to improve accessibility. While the online service is not yet widely available, no-one will miss out on the benefit as claimants can still apply in the usual way by post.”
Attendance Allowance, the financial aid aimed at helping those of State Pension age with everyday costs, comes in two flavours: £72.65 weekly for the lower rate or £108.55 for the higher rate. Paid every four weeks, recipients get either £290.60 or £434.20 per payment cycle, adding up to a tidy sum of approximately £5,644.60 across the financial year 2024/25.
The amount received depends on the level of support required and can help recipients maintain their independence at home for longer. It’s crucial to note that Attendance Allowance does not include a mobility component.The list below shows the main health conditions supported by this benefit across Great Britain, but it’s not a checklist for claiming.
Here are the conditions:
Below is everything you need to know about Attendance Allowance including the main health conditions being claimed, eligibility and how to make a claim.
Attendance Allowance explained
Attendance Allowance is a benefit designed to help with additional costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough that it makes self-care difficult. It’s important to note that this allowance does not cover mobility needs, and you don’t need to have a carer to be eligible to claim.
Who’s eligible to claim?
If you’re living with a disability or illness and need help or supervision throughout the day or night – even if you’re not currently receiving that assistance – you should consider applying for Attendance Allowance. This could include needing help with personal care tasks such as dressing, eating, getting in and out of bed, bathing, using the toilet, or staying safe.
You should also think about applying if you struggle with personal tasks, for example, if they take a long time, cause pain, or if you need physical support like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance isn’t just for people with a physical disability or illness.
You should also apply if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have a mental health condition, learning difficulties, or a sensory condition – such as being deaf or visually impaired.
How much could I receive on Attendance Allowance?
You could be entitled to either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) each week. This equates to either £290.60 or £434.20 every pay period.
The money can be used however you see fit and could assist you in maintaining your independence at home for longer. This might include covering taxi fares or contributing towards bills.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance even if I have savings and other income?
The answer is yes. Attendance Allowance isn’t means-tested, so your other income or the amount of savings you have doesn’t matter – there’s no limit.
It’s also tax-free and you’ll be exempt from the Benefit Cap, meaning you won’t lose money from any other benefits.
Will Attendance Allowance affect my State Pension?
No, it won’t impact your State Pension and you can even claim it if you’re still working and earning money.
How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
Your other benefits might increase if you get Attendance Allowance. These could include Extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit Reduction, and Council Tax Reduction.
How do I make a claim?
You’ll need to complete a lengthy claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem intimidating at first, but help is available from your nearest Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form deter you from applying.
If you’d prefer to do it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to fill in your claim form here. Full details of how to get the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
What happens if I am about to reach State Pension age?
If you’re considering applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) straight away – you may be able to get more money.
Who can’t claim Attendance Allowance?
If you’re already pocketing Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to help with your care costs, you won’t be able to get Attendance Allowance. If you try to apply for an Attendance Allowance while on DLA, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will usually reassess your DLA award instead.
You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award runs out, as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria. If your renewal doesn’t go through, you can then apply for Attendance Allowance.
More details about Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
