In new figures released by Social Security Scotland, it can be seen that by the end of February 2022, there were 124,081 people across Scotland receiving financial support through Attendance Allowance.
Across the UK in general, there are now more than 1.5 million people over State Pension age, either receiving £61.85 or £92.40 weekly through the same benefit. As reported by the Daily Record, the data also showed that 62 per cent of Scottish Attendance Allowance claimants are female, with 38 per cent of claimants being male.
Of the people receiving the benefit delivered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), approximately 59 per cent are aged over 80. The most common condition that limits the use of the person was arthritis (29 per cent) followed by an unknown condition (9 per cent).
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Arthritis is a fairly common condition that causes pain and inflammation in a person's joints. Millions of people in the UK suffer from arthritis, or other conditions that affect the joints.
Those living with arthritis, muscle or joint pain, could be eligible for support from the DWP through Attendance Allowance. Lots of older people may be entitled to the benefit, but are unsure on how to make a claim.
Listed below is what you need to know about Attendance Allowance, how to start your application, and who is eligible for the benefit. Full information can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit that helps with extra costs, if you live with a mental or physical disability, or if you have an illness severe enough that it makes it hard to look after yourself. Note, however, it does not cover mobility needs.
You do not need to have a full time carer in order to claim the benefit.
Who can make an Attendance Allowance claim?
Those who have a disability or illness, and need help or supervision throughout the day or night should definitely consider applying for Attendance Allowance. This includes if you do not receive help at this point in time.
Examples include the likes of:
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 struggle with the following:
- Completing everyday tasks
- Experience pain daily
- Need physical help, like leaning on chairs etc
Attendance Allowance is not just a benefit for those with a physical disability or illness. You should also consider claiming the benefit if you have:
a mental health condition
learning difficulties
a sensory condition - if you are deaf or blind
How much could I earn on Attendance Allowance?
You could either receive:
- £61.85 a week or,
- £92.40 a week
This depends on the level of care you need due to your condition. It is paid monthly, which works out at £247.40 and £369.60 respectively. The money can be spend however you want, and could help you continue to live independently.
This might include:
paying for taxis
helping towards bills
paying for a cleaner or gardener
You can also still make a claim, even if you have savings and other income. 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 still claim if you are still working and earning money. Other benefits that may be increased if you begin to claim Attendance Allowance 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 an Attendance Allowance claim?
You will need to fill in a lengthy form to claim Attendance Allowance. Help is available from your nearest Citizens Advice.
However, if you'd prefer to complete it alone, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to fill in your claim form here. More details of how to get the form via post or over the phone can be found here.
Who cannot claim Attendance Allowance?
You cannot claim Attendance Allowance if you already receive a Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or a Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to pay for 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 renewal is unsuccessful, then you could apply for Attendance Allowance instead. Find out more about Attendance Allowance on the GOV.UK website here.
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