Brits over state pension age could be due extra £158 per month | Personal Finance | Finance
Some Brits over the state pension age could be entitled to more money. Those receiving the lower rate of Attendance Allowance are encouraged to check if they are eligible for the higher rate, as it could provide them with an income boost of around £36.50 extra per week, or £158 per month.
The tax-free benefit is designed to help people over state pension age (currently 66) who need help with care due to a health condition or disability, and is paid at two rates: £73.90 per week at the lower rate and £110.40 at the higher rate. The rate people receive depends on the severity of their condition. However, those currently receiving the lower rate may find they could be eligible for the higher rate.
As reported by Chronicle Live, there are two circumstances which can move recipients to the higher benefit amount. People are urged to contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) if they believe they are entitled to more cash.
The first circumstance is a change in condition. If your wellbeing changes, influencing how much support you need, this will change how much you get from Attendance Allowance.
Those who need more assistance due to their deteriorating health may be entitled to the higher rate. The DWP requires details about the change, including how much more help you need every day, in order to give you the extra money.
The second circumstance is if you receive a terminal diagnosis. You can have your benefit rate increased if a medical professional tells you that you have 12 months or less to live.
A terminal diagnosis also allows claimants to bypass some of the elibility requirements. They may not have to prove they have been experiencing difficulties for at least six months while applying for Attendance Allowance.
The DWP said: “If you’re nearing the end of life (for example, due to a life-limiting illness) you might be able to get Attendance Allowance more quickly and at a higher rate. This is sometimes called ‘special rules for end of life’.”
They added: “It can be difficult to predict how long someone might live for. If a medical professional has not talked to you about this, you can still ask them to support your claim under the special rules for end of life.”
