Some older people with back pain could claim £441 a month from DWP | Personal Finance | Finance
State pensioners living with back pain could be eligible for up to £441 each month. Recent data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) shows that 74,804 older people are claiming Attendance Allowance due to back pain.
Attendance Allowance is awarded to those over state pension age who need extra help or supervision because of a disability or illness. You might also qualify if everyday tasks take you a significant amount of time, or cause you discomfort or pain.
You may be eligible if you have a physical disability, mental disability, or both, and your condition has required assistance for at least six months.
Attendance Allowance amounts to £73.90 per week if you need help or supervision during the day, or supervision at night, or £110.40 per week if you need help or supervision throughout both day and night, or if you’re nearing the end of your life.
It is paid every four weeks, which means you could receive either £295.60 or £441.60 each pay period. It’s crucial to understand that you don’t need to have a carer to qualify for Attendance Allowance, reports the Mirror.
For example, you could choose to spend the money on taxis or a cleaner, to maintain your independence. However, it’s vital to inform the DWP if your circumstances change, as this could affect the amount of Attendance Allowance you receive.
Attendance Allowance isn’t subject to means-testing, meaning there’s no restriction on the amount of savings you can have. It’s also tax-free and you’ll be exempt from the benefit cap.
Interestingly, other benefits you’re currently receiving might increase if you get Attendance Allowance. However, you won’t qualify for Attendance Allowance if you’re already getting Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
In Scotland, Attendance Allowance has been replaced with Pension Age Disability Payment.
How to claim Attendance Allowance
You can make a claim for Attendance Allowance by either printing off and posting the Attendance Allowance claim form to: Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance. Alternatively, you can ring the Attendance Allowance helpline to request a claim form using the provided numbers:
- Telephone: 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 731 0122
- British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service
When filling in the form, you’ll need to detail how your illness or disability affects your daily life. You’ll also need to provide supporting information, such as letters from your GP, your care plans, or lists of prescriptions.
Some people may be asked to attend an assessment before being granted Attendance Allowance. If you’re terminally ill, you can submit a claim immediately and you’ll be awarded the higher rate.
