DWP Attendance Allowance conditions that can claim up to £434 a month after new data

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled new data indicating that around 1.7 million elderly individuals were claiming Attendance Allowance as of the end of February 2024. It's important to highlight that while payments may be temporarily halted for those in hospital or care homes, their entitlement remains unaffected.

The Attendance Allowance, either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) per week, translates to either £290.60 or £434.20 every four weeks - a total of approximately £5,644.60 over the 2024/25 fiscal year. The amount received is dependent on the level of support needed and the benefit is designed to help people of State Pension age with daily living costs, potentially allowing them to retain independence in their own home for longer.

However, it should be pointed out that there is no mobility component attached to Attendance Allowance. As of February 2024, the number of elderly individuals receiving payments includes those with disabilities, long-term illnesses, and mental or physical health issues.

Most claimed conditions supported by Attendance Allowance

The list of conditions supported by Attendance Allowance is extensive, but arthritis is the most common disabling condition, providing support for 460,993 people across Great Britain, including 42,115 in Scotland.

The top 10 conditions that account for 74% of the 1.6 million people receiving Attendance Allowance payments have been revealed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The data, which comes from the DWP's Attendance Allowance computer system, shows that arthritis, dementia, and heart disease are among the most common conditions being supported, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Attendance Allowance helps with extra costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough that makes it hard for you to look after yourself - it does not cover mobility needs. You do not need to have someone caring for you in order to make a claim.

Who can claim?

If you're living with a disability or illness and need assistance or supervision throughout the day or night, even if you're not currently receiving that help, it's recommended to apply for Attendance Allowance. This could cover help with personal care such as dressing, eating, drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing, showering, and using the toilet, or help to stay safe.

It's also advised to apply if you struggle with personal tasks, for instance, if they take a long time, cause pain, or if you need physical support like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance isn't just for individuals with a physical disability or illness.

If you require 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), you should also claim. The amount you could receive on Attendance Allowance is either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) each week, which equates to either £290.60 or £434.20 every pay period.

The money can be used however you wish and could assist you in maintaining your independence at home for longer. This might include paying for taxis, contributing towards bills, or hiring a cleaner or gardener.

You can claim Attendance Allowance even if you have savings and other income.

Indeed, Attendance Allowance isn't means-tested, which means it doesn't matter what other income you have or how much savings you possess - there's no limit. It is also tax-free and you will be exempt from the Benefit Cap, so you won't have money deducted from any other benefits.

Will Attendance Allowance impact my State Pension?

No, it won't affect your State Pension and you can even claim it if you're still employed and earning money. How does Attendance Allowance influence other benefits?

The other benefits you receive might increase if you get Attendance Allowance, these include: Extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit Reduction, Council Tax Reduction.

How do I make a claim?

You will need to complete a lengthy claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem intimidating at first but assistance is available from your nearest Citizens Advice, so don't let the form deter you from applying.

If you'd prefer to do it yourself you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to fill in your claim form here. Full details of how to get the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.

What happens if I am about to reach State Pension age?

If you are considering applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) straight away - you may be able to get more money.

Who cannot claim Attendance Allowance?

If you're currently in receipt of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to help with your care costs, you won't qualify for Attendance Allowance. If you attempt to apply for Attendance Allowance while receiving DLA, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will usually reassess your DLA award instead.

You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award ends, as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria. If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can then apply for Attendance Allowance.

More information about Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV. UK website.