A potential 1.1 million individuals may be overlooking the opportunity to claim Attendance Allowance, a benefit that could amount to £441 per month. These statistics come from Policy in Practice, who are encouraging individuals to assess their eligibility for extra support. Attendance Allowance is granted to individuals above the state pension age who require additional assistance or supervision due to a disability or illness.
Eligibility for this allowance extends to individuals facing prolonged difficulties or discomfort in completing daily tasks. Moreover, those who have needed assistance for at least six months due to their condition may qualify. The benefit amounts to £73.90 per week for daytime assistance or supervision, and £110.40 per week for full-day and nighttime assistance, or for those nearing the end of life.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) disburses Attendance Allowance every four weeks, providing recipients with either £295.60 or £441.60 per pay period. Notably, having a caregiver is not a prerequisite for eligibility. Beneficiaries are encouraged to inform the DWP of any changes in their circumstances that could impact the amount they receive.
Unlike means-tested benefits, Attendance Allowance has no savings cap and is tax-free, exempting recipients from the benefit cap. Furthermore, receiving Attendance Allowance could lead to an increase in other benefits. Individuals already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) are ineligible for Attendance Allowance.
In Scotland, Attendance Allowance has been replaced by Pension Age Disability Payment. Those interested in claiming Attendance Allowance can submit a claim form via post or by contacting the helpline for assistance. When completing the form, applicants should detail how their illness or disability affects their daily life and provide supporting documents such as GP letters or care plans.
Some applicants may need to undergo an assessment before receiving Attendance Allowance, except for those who are terminally ill, who are eligible for the higher rate without assessment.