DWP Attendance Allowance (AA) is a significant financial benefit for people over State Pension age. In particular, it benefits those with health problems such as arthritis and back pain, which are common among older people.
This allowance is intended to cover the additional costs associated with physical or mental disabilities. However, it is not intended to meet mobility needs. Most importantly, claimants do not need a carer to qualify for this allowance.
As of August 2023, 435,340 people in Great Britain claimed help for arthritis, making it the most common condition. An additional 62,211 pensioners claimed help for back pain.
To put this into perspective, an estimated 2.5 million people in the UK suffer from back pain on a daily basis, many of whom may not be aware that they are eligible for financial help.
If you qualify for this allowance, you can receive £72.65 if you need help during the day or at night, and £108.55 if you need help both during the day and at night, or if you are terminally ill. Payments are made every four weeks, amounting to £290.60 or £434.20 per pay period.
Also, Attendance Allowance has no effect on your state pension. In fact, you can claim it while continuing to work and receive an income. In addition, it may increase the amount of other benefits you receive, including :
- Extra Pension Credit
- Reduced Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
Who Qualifies for DWP's Attendance Allowance?
You can claim AA if you suffer from a disability or illness that requires assistance or supervision day and night. This applies in the following circumstances:
- Aid with Personal Care: Assistance required for getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, and toilet visits.
- Safety Measures: If you need help to remain safe.
You should seek AA even if you are not currently receiving any help, as long as you are experiencing difficulties in carrying out personal tasks that cause you pain or require physical assistance. This support is not limited to physical disabilities and is also available to people suffering from. :
- Mental health conditions
- Learning difficulties
- Sensory conditions - such as deafness or visual impairment
According to recent data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the prevalence of AA claims in Great Britain and abroad is very high.
| Country | Number of Claimants |
|---|---|
| Scotland | 5,557 |
| England | 56,207 |
| Wales | 4,231 |
| Abroad | 215 |
| Total | 66,304 |
How to Claim Attendance Allowance?
To apply for AA, you will need to fill a detailed application form. Even though it may seem a little daunting, you can get help from your local Citizen's Advice office.
Alternatively, if you prefer to do it yourself, follow the Citizen's Advice guide to completing your application form. More details on how to request the application form by post or telephone can be found on the GOV.UK website.