The latest figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that at the end of May, 2022 there were 123,786 older people living in Scotland receiving financial support through Attendance Allowance. Across the country, there are now more than 1.4million people over State Pension age getting either £61.85 or £92.40 each week through the benefit.
The data also revealed that the most common disabling condition - an umbrella term used by the DWP to cover a multitude of health conditions - was arthritis (28.5 per cent). Nearly 400,000 people across the UK are claiming the benefit for the condition, including more than 35,800 people in Scotland.
Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a joint. Across Great Britain, millions of people have arthritis or other, similar conditions that affect the joints. If you are living with arthritis, joint or muscle pain, you could be eligible for support from the DWP through Attendance Allowance.
Number of older people claiming Attendance Allowance with arthritis from DWP
- Scotland: 35,852
- England: 330,675
- Wales: 32,257
- Total: 398,781
Many more people may be entitled to Attendance Allowance but simply do not know enough about it to make a claim. It is also worth noting that a successful claim for the benefit could also result in a one-off payment for £150 this summer to help with the cost of living.
No qualifying period has been announced yet, nor a payment window over the summer, so making a claim now which later turns out to be successful is something which should not be put off. Below is an overview of what you should know about the benefit, including how to start your application.
What is Attendance Allowance?
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 claim.
Who can make a claim?
You should consider applying for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and need help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night -even if you do not currently get that help.
This might include:
Help with your personal care - for example getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering and going to the toilet
Help to stay safe
You should also consider applying if you have difficulties with personal tasks, for example if they take you a long time, you experience pain or you need physical help, like a chair to lean on.
Attendance Allowance is not just for people with a physical disability or illness.
You should also consider claiming if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have:
a mental health condition
learning difficulties
a sensory condition - if you are deaf or blind
How much could I get on Attendance Allowance?
You could get either £61.85 or £92.40 a week depending on the level of care you need because of your condition, which is paid every four weeks and works out at £247.40 and £369.60, respectively.
You can spend the money however you like and it could help you stay independent in your own home for longer.
This might include:
paying for taxis
helping towards bills
paying for a cleaner or gardener
Can I claim even if I have savings and other income?
Yes. Attendance Allowance isn't means-tested so it doesn't matter what other money you have coming in or how much you have in savings either - there's no limit.
It’s tax-free and you'll be exempt from the Benefit Cap so you won't have money taken away from any other benefits.
Will Attendance Allowance affect my State Pension?
No, it won't affect your State Pension and you can even claim it if you're still working and earning money.
How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
The other benefits you get might increase if you get Attendance Allowance, these include:
Extra Pension Credit
Housing Benefit Reduction
Council Tax Reduction
You can check your State Pension age on the GOV.UK website here.
How do I make a claim?
You will need to complete a long claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem daunting at first but help is available from your nearest Citizens Advice, so don't let the form put you off 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.UK website here.
What happens if I am about to reach State Pension age?
If you're thinking about applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming PIP straight away.
If you claim PIP and get it, the amount you get will depend on your circumstances and how your disability or illness affects you. Find out more about claiming PIP on the GOV.UK website here.
Who cannot claim Attendance Allowance?
You won't be able to get Attendance Allowance if you already get PIP or DLA to pay for your care. If you apply for Attendance Allowance while getting DLA, the DWP will usually reassess your DLA award instead.
You can renew your PIP or DLA when the existing award ends as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria. If your renewal is unsuccessful you can apply for Attendance Allowance instead.
Find out more about Attendance Allowance on the GOV.UK website here.
To keep up to date with the latest State Pension news, join our Money Saving Scotland Facebook page here, or subscribe to our newsletter which goes out four times each week - sign up here.
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