As many as 1.1 million individuals may be missing out on claiming Attendance Allowance, a benefit that can provide up to £441 per month. Policy in Practice has released new data encouraging individuals to explore potential entitlements to this allowance. Attendance Allowance is specifically designed for individuals above state pension age who require additional support or supervision due to a disability or illness.
Eligibility for Attendance Allowance extends to those facing challenges in completing daily tasks, experiencing prolonged difficulties, or enduring pain or discomfort. Applicants must have required assistance for at least six months due to their condition. The allowance amount varies, with £73.90 per week for day or night supervision, and £110.40 per week for 24-hour supervision or end-of-life care.
Administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Attendance Allowance is disbursed every four weeks, equating to payments of £295.60 or £441.60 each pay period. Notably, having a caregiver is not a prerequisite for eligibility. Recipients can use the allowance to maintain independence, such as for transportation or cleaning services. It is crucial to inform the DWP of any changes in circumstances that could affect the allowance amount.
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, exempting recipients from savings limits and benefit caps. Additionally, receiving Attendance Allowance may lead to increased benefits from other sources. However, individuals already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) are ineligible for Attendance Allowance.
In Scotland, Attendance Allowance has been succeeded by Pension Age Disability Payment. To apply for Attendance Allowance, individuals can either submit a printed claim form by mail or request a form via the Attendance Allowance helpline. The application process involves detailing how the illness or disability impacts daily life and providing supporting documents like GP letters or care plans.
Some applicants may undergo an assessment before receiving Attendance Allowance, unless they are terminally ill, in which case immediate approval for the higher rate is granted.