Approximately 1.1 million individuals may not be taking advantage of the Attendance Allowance, a benefit that can provide up to £441 per month. According to new data from Policy in Practice, there is a call for people to explore potential additional support they might be eligible for. The Attendance Allowance is specifically intended for individuals above the state pension age who require extra assistance or supervision due to a disability or illness.
Eligibility for this allowance may extend to those who face extended durations or discomfort while performing everyday tasks, provided their condition necessitates assistance for at least six months. The weekly payment for the Attendance Allowance varies, with £73.90 for daytime help or supervision, and £110.40 for around-the-clock assistance or end-of-life care.
Administered every four weeks by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Attendance Allowance can amount to £295.60 or £441.60 per payment cycle. Notably, having a caregiver is not a prerequisite for qualifying for this allowance. It is essential to notify the DWP of any changes in circumstances that could impact the amount received.
Unlike means-tested benefits, the Attendance Allowance has no restrictions on savings, is tax-free, and exempts recipients from the benefit cap. Furthermore, receiving this allowance might lead to an increase in other benefits, though individuals already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) are ineligible.
In Scotland, the Attendance Allowance has been substituted with the Pension Age Disability Payment. Application for the Attendance Allowance can be done by submitting a claim form via mail to Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance or by contacting the Attendance Allowance helpline for assistance. Applicants must provide details on how their condition affects daily life and support their claim with relevant documents like GP letters or care plans.
In certain cases, applicants may undergo an assessment before receiving the Attendance Allowance. Individuals with terminal illnesses can expedite their claim process and qualify for the higher rate promptly.
