DWP Attendance Allowance alert to as many missing out on £434

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released new data showing that nearly 461,000 people across Great Britain are now receiving Attendance Allowance support due to arthritis. This makes it the most claimed-for health condition by those over the state pension age.

People receive either £72.65 or £108.55 each week. The tax-free benefit, is not affected savings or income, is paid every four weeks.

Thus, someone on the lower rate will receive £290.60 per pay period, while those on the higher rate will get £434.20.

Arthritis, which typically causes stiffness, swelling, pain and inflammation in a joint, is the most common disabling condition – a term used by the DWP to encompass various health conditions.

It accounts for over one-third (35%) of all the 1.6 million claims for Attendance Allowance. Across Great Britain, an estimated 20 million people suffer from arthritis or similar joint-affecting conditions.

If you’re living with arthritis, back, joint, muscle or chronic pain, you could be eligible for DWP support through this benefit.

Currently, over 1.6m older people across Great Britain are claiming Attendance Allowance.

Here’s a brief rundown of what you need to know about Attendance Allowance, including how to initiate your application. Comprehensive information on claiming Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV.UK website here.

It’s also worth considering applying for Attendance Allowance – or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (ADP) if you or a family member are below State Pension age.

It’s a benefit designed to help cover additional costs if you have a severe physical or mental disability or illness that makes self-care difficult – it does not cater to mobility needs. Importantly, you don’t need to have a carer to apply.

If you have a disability or illness and require assistance or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night – even if you’re not currently receiving that help – you should consider applying for Attendance Allowance. This could include assistance with personal care, such as dressing, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, and using the toilet, or help to ensure your safety.

You should also apply if you struggle with personal tasks, for instance, if they take you a long time, cause pain, or if you need physical support like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance isn’t exclusively for individuals with a physical disability or illness. It’s also applicable if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night due to 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 eligible for £72.65 if you need help during the day or at night, or £108.55 if you need help both during the day and at night, or if you are terminally ill. The benefit is paid every four weeks, meaning you could receive either £290.60 or £434.20 each pay period. You can use the money however you wish, and it could assist you in maintaining your independence at home for longer.

This might involve paying for taxis, contributing towards bills, or hiring a cleaner or gardener.

Can I claim Attendance Allowance even if I have savings and other income?

Yes, Attendance Allowance isn’t subject to means-testing, so your other income or savings won’t affect it – there’s no upper limit. Moreover, it is tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap, ensuring no deductions from any other benefits.

Will Attendance Allowance impact my State Pension?

No, it won’t influence your State Pension and you can even claim it while still employed and earning. How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits? Your other benefits might increase if you receive Attendance Allowance, these include: Extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit Reduction, Council Tax Reduction.

How do I make a claim?

To apply for Attendance Allowance, you’ll need to fill out a lengthy claim form. While it may seem intimidating initially, assistance is available from your local Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form deter you from applying.

If you’d prefer to handle it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to complete your claim form here. Full details on how to obtain the application form by post or phone are available 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 as you approach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) immediately – you could potentially receive more money.