Martin Lewis has urged Brits to check if they’re entitled to extra money through Attendance Allowance – which is a benefit that is awarded to people over state pension age
Martin Lewis has encouraged older Brits to verify their eligibility for additional funds through Attendance Allowance.
Attendance Allowance is a benefit granted to individuals over the state pension age who require extra assistance or supervision due to a disability or illness.
You could receive £72.65 per week if you need help or supervision during the day, or supervision at night, or £108.55 per week if you need help or supervision throughout both day and night, or if you’re nearing the end of your life.
The DWP pays the benefit every four weeks, which means you could receive either £290.60 or £434.20 each pay period. Importantly, you don’t need to have a carer in order to claim Attendance Allowance.
The money claimed could be used to maintain your independence, such as covering the cost of taxis or a cleaner.
Ultimately, your eligibility is determined by the type of help you require, not the condition you have. Attendance Allowance isn’t means-tested and your savings aren’t considered when determining your eligibility, reports the Mirror.
It’s also tax-free and you’ll be exempt from the benefit cap.
Attendance Allowance could boost your other benefits like Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Support. However, it’s a no-go if you’re already on Personal Independence Payment or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
The money maestro Martin Lewis said on his latest Martin Lewis Money Show Live: “This is for disabled or ill people of state pension age, we need to collectively work together to spread word on this one.
“Most importantly, Attendance Allowance is not means tested, they do not look at your means or how much money you’ve got. You’re either entitled to it or not entitled to it regardless of finances. It is for those who need help with daily living. Both mental and physical conditions.
“For those who are already on Personal Independence Payments or Disability Living Allowance, you get more, you can’t have both, you don’t wanna claim this. This is for everyone else.
“So let’s look at the amounts. If you need help during the day or in the night, but not both, is the lower rate, £73 a week, so just under £4,000 a year. If you need help during the day and at night, that’s the higher rate, £109 a week, just under £6,000 a year.”
He wrapped up by highlighting particular groups who might qualify for Attendance Allowance, stating: “This is common for people with Parkinson’s, or physical disabilities, dementia or terminal illness and more. You can apply on someone else’s behalf as long as they are capable of understanding or you can sign it for them if you have Power of Attorney.”