DWP £434.20 a Monthly Benefits: The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released new data showing that nearly 1.7 million elderly individuals in the UK are now receiving Attendance Allowance. This non-means-tested benefit provides financial support to pensioners who have health conditions or disabilities that make daily activities challenging.
With payments of £72.65 or £108.55 per week, Attendance Allowance helps cover extra costs associated with personal care and supervision needs. However, many eligible pensioners remain unaware of this financial aid. In this guide, we explain who qualifies, how much you can get, and how to apply.
Who Can Claim Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is available to individuals who:
- Are of State Pension age (currently 66 or over).
- Have a physical or mental health condition that affects daily living.
- Need help or supervision with personal tasks, even if they don’t currently receive assistance.
- Do not require mobility support (this benefit does not cover mobility needs).
You don’t need a carer to qualify, and your income or savings won’t affect your eligibility since the benefit is not means-tested.
Common Health Conditions That Qualify
Many conditions may make you eligible for Attendance Allowance, including:
- Arthritis (claimed by 484,000 pensioners)
- Back pain (claimed by 74,804 pensioners)
- Sensory impairments (deafness or vision loss)
- Mental health conditions (such as anxiety or dementia)
- Neurological disorders (such as Parkinson’s disease)
- Chronic illnesses (such as COPD or heart disease)
If your condition affects your ability to dress, bathe, eat, move around the house, or stay safe, you may qualify.
How Much Can You Receive?
Attendance Allowance is paid at two different rates:
| Rate | Weekly Payment | Who Qualifies? |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £72.65 | If you need help during the day OR night |
| Higher Rate | £108.55 | If you need help during the day AND night, or are terminally ill |
Payments are made every four weeks, meaning you could receive:
- £290.60 per month at the lower rate.
- £434.20 per month at the higher rate.
This money can be used for any expenses that help maintain independence, such as paying for transport, household bills, or home assistance.
How Attendance Allowance Affects Other Benefits
Receiving Attendance Allowance could increase the amount you get from other benefits, including:
- Extra Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit Reduction
- Council Tax Reduction
Additionally, Attendance Allowance:
- Is tax-free.
- Won’t affect your State Pension.
- Is exempt from the Benefit Cap.
- Can be claimed even if you’re still working.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
To apply for Attendance Allowance, you need to complete a detailed claim form. While the process may seem complex, help is available from organizations like Citizens Advice.
Steps to Apply:
- Obtain an application form:
- Download from GOV.UK.
- Request one by calling 0800 731 0122.
- Fill out the form carefully:
- Provide detailed information about how your condition affects daily life.
- Explain why you need help or supervision.
- Seek assistance if needed:
- Use Citizens Advice for guidance.
- Follow step-by-step instructions available online.
- Submit your application:
- Send the completed form via post to the DWP.
Should You Apply for PIP Instead?
If you are nearing State Pension age, you may want to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead, as it offers higher payouts and mobility support.
Attendance Allowance provides valuable financial support to pensioners struggling with health conditions. Despite nearly 1.7 million people already receiving it, many more may qualify but haven’t applied.
If you or someone you know is eligible, don’t miss out on this benefit. Applying could help cover essential daily costs and improve your quality of life. Visit GOV.UK or seek Citizens Advice to start your claim today.
FAQ’s
Who qualifies for Attendance Allowance?
Anyone of State Pension age (66+ years) who has a physical or mental condition requiring help or supervision with daily activities can apply.
How much money can I receive?
– £72.65 per week if you need help during the day or night.
– £108.55 per week if you need help during the day and night, or are terminally ill.
Will my savings affect my eligibility?
No, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your income and savings do not matter.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance if I’m still working?
Yes, you can receive Attendance Allowance even if you’re employed and earning.
How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
It can increase payments for Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction but will not affect your State Pension.
How do I apply for Attendance Allowance?
You can request a claim form from GOV.UK or by calling 0800 731 0122. Citizens Advice can help you fill out the form.
Should I apply for PIP instead of Attendance Allowance?
If you are below State Pension age, you should apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead, as it offers higher payouts and mobility support.
