People often misunderstand the DWP qualifying rules
Many people with a widespread health condition may be losing out on DWP benefit payments. Specialists fear many wrongly believe they’re ineligible due to misunderstanding the DWP rules.
Specialists at life insurance provider Zurich have warned that individuals aren’t preparing financially for the likelihood they’ll be impacted by dementia. This is despite the condition being the UK’s leading cause of death, with half of UK adults knowing someone who has been affected by the condition. The expenses of living with the condition can dramatically escalate as the illness advances, with even mild dementia costing on average £28,700 annually, climbing to £80,500 yearly for severe dementia cases.
Government assistance is available if you have a health condition such as dementia, but there’s a danger that those with the illness don’t claim their entitlements. Peter Hamilton, head of Market Engagement at Zurich UK, explained: “Many benefits are not automatic, meaning that you or your LPA (lasting power of attorney) must apply for them, which is a key barrier for people with cognitive impairment.”
He referenced research suggesting individuals could be forfeiting between £1,000 and £5,000 annually in unclaimed benefits. Mr Hamilton discussed why people might be missing out.
More likely to miss out
He said: “People with dementia are disproportionately likely to miss out due to complex systems, cognitive decline, and low awareness. Lack of diagnosis also contributes, with more than a third of people with dementia in the UK not having a formal diagnosis, limiting access to support.”
One benefit he highlighted that people frequently fail to claim is Attendance Allowance. This payment assists those of state pension age who have a health condition requiring meaning they rely on others for care.
The scheme offers either £76.70 or £114.60 per week. Claiming this support can unlock additional Government assistance, including extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or a reduction in council tax.
Mr Hamilton said: “Attendance Allowance is often underclaimed, which directly supports care/supervision needs typical in dementia. But it’s not means-tested, so many assume incorrectly they will not be able to qualify.”
He suggested one potential improvement to the system would be an automated process. He said that benefits could be triggered based on an individual’s health records, removing the need for people to submit their own applications.
