Millions of pensioners in the UK are not receiving an £8,000 annual benefit that Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis has revealed. Between £3,778 and £7,956 can be offered annually by Attendance Allowance to about 1.1 million people who qualify for it.
Millions of Pensioners Missing Out on Crucial Benefit, Says Martin Lewis
This means tested-free Attendance Allowance is available to all individuals of retirement age in the United Kingdom needing help with everyday activities, no matter how much they earn. Illness or disability need not be specific; if they impact daily life significantly enough, then one may apply for this allowance according to what the expert explained.
Eligibility, Rates, and Conditions:
Accordingly, the Express says eligibility hinges on either having been assisted with simple things like eating and dressing or else being surveyed over a continuous period of six months.
- Basic Rate: £73 per week (£3,778 per year) for help required during the day or night.
- Higher Rate: £109 per week (£5,644 per year) if assistance is needed both day and night, or if life expectancy is less than 12 months.
However, Obtaining Attendance Allowance can also increase payments such as Pension Credit, which have other financial advantages including reduced council tax and added housing benefits.
Martin shared an example of a man who claimed successfully for his mother-in-law living with him, who had severe disabilities. As a result, her weekly top up was raised by 36 pounds (16.33 kg) while he received an arrearage amounting to 1010 pounds (0.46 ton).
For example, she was paid 73 Pounds per week extra because she had attended at least once a year along with another payment of 727 Pounds back dated meaning her total increment annually was amounted to £7956.
According to the government’s Gov.UK website, the allowance is paid at two rates based on the level of care needed, offering £72.65 or £108.55 weekly for personal support. It does not cover mobility needs.
“You could receive extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction if you receive Attendance Allowance. You do not need a carer to make a claim.”