The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released updated guidance for state pensioners looking to claim Attendance Allowance worth up to £434 monthly.
The benefit is available to those aged 66 or older who require assistance with personal care or supervision due to illness or disability.
More than 1.6 million people are currently claiming the benefit, which is not means-tested. The DWP has introduced changes to make the application process more accessible for pensioners with health conditions or disabilities.
To streamline the process, the DWP introduced an online application system for Attendance Allowance last year. The system currently accepts only a limited number of applications each week to manage demand.
Paper applications remain an option for individuals who cannot apply online or miss the weekly submission window. To apply by post, Britons should call the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122 to request a form.
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DWP unveils 'new way' state pensioners can free £434 monthly payment boost
GETTYThe DWP's updated guidance specifies that claimants should only write the Freepost address on the envelope without needing a postcode or stamp.
To be eligible for Attendance Allowance, claimants must be over the state pension age of 66 and have a disability or illness requiring help.
Applicants must have needed assistance with personal care, such as washing, dressing, eating, or drinking, for at least six consecutive months.
Those requiring supervision to ensure safety during the day or night may also qualify. Individuals with terminal illnesses who have been told by a medical professional that they have 12 months or less to live can also claim.
Pensioners have struggled amid the cost of living crisis GETTY It's important to note that people already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), or the care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) cannot claim Attendance Allowance.
Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates, depending on the level of help needed, not any current help the person does or doesn't get.
The lower rate is £72.65 per week (£3,778 a year) for those who need help or supervision during either the day or night.
The higher rate is £108.55 per week (£5,644 a year) for those requiring assistance during both day and night, or who have a terminal illness.
These rates will increase by 1.7 per cent in April as part of the annual benefit payment uplift. After the increase, the lower rate will rise to £73.90 per week and the higher rate to £110.40 per week.
A variety of health conditions could make a person eligible for Attendance Allowance. The primary conditions commonly claimed for include arthritis, dementia, heart disease, and respiratory conditions.
Other qualifying conditions include diseases of the muscles, bones or joints, cerebrovascular disease, back pain, and visual disorders. Parkinson's disease and other neurological conditions may also qualify someone for the benefit.
Money Saving Expert explains: "Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested weekly payment to help cover costs of pensioners (aged 66+) who need someone to 'attend' them."
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ITVThe online application can be accessed through the government website. Alternatively, those wishing to apply by post can contact the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122 to request an application form.
