As many as 1.1 million individuals may be overlooking the opportunity to apply for Attendance Allowance, a benefit that can amount to £441 per month. These findings come from Policy in Practice, which is encouraging individuals to assess their potential eligibility for additional assistance. Attendance Allowance is granted to those above state pension age who require extra support or supervision due to a disability or illness.
Eligibility for this allowance is also possible if everyday tasks are time-consuming, painful, or uncomfortable. Qualification may be met if a person has been dependent on assistance for at least six months due to their condition. The value of Attendance Allowance is £73.90 per week for daytime support or supervision, or £110.40 per week for round-the-clock support or supervision, or for individuals 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 in each payment period. It is important to note that having a caregiver is not a requirement for eligibility for Attendance Allowance.
Individuals have the flexibility to utilize the allowance for various purposes such as transportation or domestic help to maintain independence. However, notifying the DWP of any changes in circumstances is crucial to avoid any impact on the amount of Attendance Allowance received.
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, has no savings limit, is tax-free, and exempts recipients from benefit cap restrictions. Additionally, receiving Attendance Allowance may lead to an increase in other benefits. It is worth mentioning that individuals already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) are ineligible for Attendance Allowance.
In Scotland, Attendance Allowance has been substituted with Pension Age Disability Payment. Claiming Attendance Allowance can be done by submitting the claim form via mail to Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance or by contacting the Attendance Allowance helpline for assistance.
When completing the claim form, applicants must detail how their illness or disability impacts their daily life and provide supporting documents like GP letters, care plans, or prescription lists. Some applicants may be required to attend an assessment before receiving Attendance Allowance. Terminally ill individuals can expedite their claim process and qualify for the higher rate without delay.