The State Pension gives more than 12 million people across Scotland and the UK financial assistance.
It is available to people who have reached the UK Government's eligible retirement age, which currently sits at 66 for both males and females.
The regular payment is not issued automatically, but rather has to be claimed by those who are eligible — meaning people can put off getting it in order to continue working and add more to their pension.
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As reported by the Daily Record, a lot of older people across Scotland and the UK could be missing out on an additional benefit that is worth as much as £358.40 every four weeks.
Attendance Allowance is a benefit available to people of State Pension age to help with daily living expenses and can help claimants stay independent in their own home for longer.
With soaring energy bills and a worsening cost of living crisis, older people who are struggling financially should apply for Attendance Allowance if they are eligible.
Here is a summary of everything you need to know about Attendance Allowance, including how to make a claim.
What is Attendance Allowance?
It is a benefit intended to help people of State Pension age who have a disability or long-term physical or mental health condition that makes it hard for them to look after themselves — though it does not cover mobility needs.
You do not have to currently be in care or have somebody looking after you to be eligible.
Who can claim?
The benefit is available to people who have disability or health condition and need assistance or supervision during the day or night — even if they are not currently getting that help.
This could include:
Assistance with 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
People who have difficulties with personal tasks — for example, if they take a long time — should also apply for Attendance Allowance.
It is not just for people with a physical disability or condition, and is available to people who have:
a mental health condition
learning difficulties
a sensory condition - if you are deaf or visually impaired
How much could I get on Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance claimants receive either £60 or £89.60 per week, dependent on the level of care they require due to their health.
This is paid every four weeks, totalling £240 and £358.40 respectively.
The money can be spent however the claimant wishes, and may be used to help them stay independent in their own home for as long as possible.
The benefit could be used for:
paying for taxis
helping towards bills
paying for a cleaner or gardener
Can I claim Attendance Allowance even if I have savings and other income?
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested so it does not matter how much money a claimant has coming in or whether they have any savings.
It is also tax-free and claimants will be exempt from the Benefit Cap so will not have money taken away from other benefits.
Will Attendance Allowance affect my State Pension?
Attendance Allowance will not impact your State Pension, and can be claimed by those who are still in work.
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
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 are thinking about applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming PIP straight away - you may be able to get more money.
If you claim PIP and get it, the amount you receive will depend on your circumstances and how your disability or illness affects you.
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 Department for Work and Pensions (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.
