People are unaware they are entitled to it
Money expert Martin Lewis has warned that a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefit which could be worth up to £8,000 a year is not being claimed by millions of pensioners who are entitled to it.
The founder of The MoneySavingExpert says that 1.1million people across the country are missing out on Attendance Allowance.
The benefit can provide between £3,778 – £7,956 annually and is not means-tested.
Therefore, the little-known benefit is available to anyone of state pension age who require assistance with daily living activities.
Lewis stressed that there isn’t a specific list of conditions for eligibility, it can apply to any mental or physical disability or illness, if it significantly affects the individual’s life.
To qualify, an individual must have needed help for at least six consecutive months (regardless of whether you received that help) with everyday tasks such as washing, eating or dressing.
It is commonly awarded to those with terminal illnesses, blindness, dementia or learning difficulties among others.
In his MSE newsletter Lewis said: “Basic Attendance Allowance is worth £73 a week – that’s £3,778 a year. There are two rates of AA:- Need help during the day OR night?
“You get the lower rate of £73/wk (£3,778/yr).- Need help during BOTH the day and night? You get the higher rate of £109/wk (£5,644/yr).- Have less than 12 months to live? You get the higher rate of £109/wk (£5,644/yr).”
According to the Express, eligibility for Attendance Allowance could enhance your Pension Credit payment, leading to additional financial support, as well as a reduction in council tax or extra housing benefit.
The government’s website explained: “It’s paid at 2 different rates and how much you get depends on the level of care that you need because of your disability. You could receive £72.65 or £108.55 a week to help with personal support if you’re both. It does not cover mobility needs.
“You could get extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction if you get Attendance Allowance. You do not have to have someone caring for you in order to claim.”
A man who claimed on behalf of his severely disabled mother-in-law shared with Lewis that after having her Pension Credit reassessed, her benefit was increased by £36 a week with a back payment of £1,010. On top of this, she received £73 a week for Attendance Allowance with an additional back payment of £727, resulting in a total annual increase of £7,956.
