Health conditions can make life and self-care significantly more challenging, especially as we age. Attendance Allowance is a benefit offered to Brits over the age of 66 to help with this, and can be worth up to £5,740 a year. The benefit is targeted at people with a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough to make looking after themselves difficult.
Latest figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show 1.7 million pensioners are already claiming the extra assistance in Britain. Yet more could be eligible if they suffer from one of 48 health conditions currently being claimed for, even if they don’t receive any help. The allowance is typically paid in tax-free monthly instalments directly into your bank account. The money is paid at two rates: the lower rate is £73.90 per week, and the higher rate is £110.40 per week.
Based on the higher weekly rate, an eligible claimant could receive up to £5,740.80 a year. The severity of your condition and the amount of support necessary determine which rate you are offered.
The benefit is aimed at helping those with disability, chronic illnesses and battles with mental or physical health, the DWP said. The 48 conditions listed are very wide-ranging. Arthritis is the most common condition claimed for, with more than 480,000 currently on the Attendance Allowance roll.
It is also important to note that the 48 conditions are not a checklist. The benefit can be judged on a case-by-case basis.
