DWP list of medical conditions that can see pensioners paid £434 a month
Brits are being encouraged to check their eligibility for a benefit that could be worth up to £434 every month. Pensioners living with 10 relatively common health conditions, as well as various other disabilities and illnesses, might qualify for this financial aid.
Currently, around 1.6 million people in the UK are claiming Attendance Allowance, according to figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This tax-free benefit is not means-tested and is valued at either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) each week.
As reported by the Daily Record, Attendance Allowance is typically paid every four weeks, equating to either £290.60 or £434.20 per pay period - totalling £5,644.60 during the current financial year. From April this year, weekly payments are set to increase to £73.90 (lower rate) and £110.40 (higher rate).
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The funds are intended to assist individuals of State Pension age who have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough to make self-care difficult. However, it's important to note that it does not cover mobility needs.
Furthermore, having a carer is not a requirement for making a claim. The list of conditions supported through Attendance Allowance is extensive, but arthritis, which provides support for 469,902 people across the UK, is the most common disabling condition - a term used by the DWP.
According to data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), 10 conditions account for 74 percent of the 1.6 million people receiving Attendance Allowance payments. These are:
Arthritis - 469,902 claimants
Dementia - 170,225
Heart disease - 120,914
Respiratory conditions - 100,530
Disease of the muscles, bones or joints - 83,594
Cerebrovascular disease - 73,475
Back pain - 72,553
Visual disorders and diseases - 50,107
Parkinson’s - 43,367
Neurological conditions - 34,804.
The money can be spent as you wish, potentially helping you maintain independence in your own home for longer. This could involve paying for taxis, contributing towards bills, or hiring a cleaner or gardener.
How to claim
You can apply for Attendance Allowance online or by post, requiring your National Insurance number, address and contact details, information about the disability or health condition necessitating extra help, details of your GP surgery or medical centre, and details of your care home, hospital or hospice if you’re currently staying in one. For more information or to claim, visit gov.uk/attendance-allowance/how-to-claim.
Please note that you won't be able to get Attendance Allowance if you already receive PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to pay for your care.