If you have a severe disability in the UK, you may be eligible for the attendance allowance. But what is the attendance allowance, and how can you be sure that you are eligible for it? That is exactly what we are here to answer.

In this blog, we will provide you with all the information you need to apply for this state benefit. We will start by defining the allowance and why the UK government provides it to its citizens. Then, we will look at its eligibility criteria by discussing who can apply for it. Lastly, we will tell you how you can claim an attendance allowance and how much will be paid to you.

If you need more information about disability benefits, visit CruseBurke!

What is the Attendance Allowance in the UK?

Attendance allowance is provided by the Government of the UK to those who have a severe disability and require another person for assistance. In addition, this benefit does not depend on your income or savings. The scheme aims to help disabled people live independently with dignity. In addition, it also attempts to reduce the burden on family members. If you are wondering whether you should be applying for it, then the answer is yes, because it can substantially improve the quality of your life by providing this assistance.

Who can Apply for an Attendance Allowance?

The above section provided us with a clear description of what the allowance is and why it is provided. Now, let’s see if you are eligible to apply for an attendance allowance. The following are the requirements that you must fulfil:

• A physical disability, which includes sensory disabilities
• Or a mental disability (a person can also have both)
• You are at the state pension age
• Required assistance for at least 6 months
• Be a resident of Great Britain
• Must have lived two of the last three years in the UK
• Not be subject to immigration control
• You are not getting DLA or the PIP

If you are having a problem understanding the complicated requirements, call us; we are always ready to help!

How Much Does the Government Pay for this Benefit?

Sorry to keep you waiting for so long. Now we will see how much the government pays for the attendance allowance. The allowance is given to candidates at two rates. The lower rate and the higher rate;

The Lower Rate:

For this rate, you must require frequent assistance performing the day-to-day tasks. In addition, the applicant must be supervised during the day and night by another person. If that is true for you, the government provides a total of £68.10 per week under this rate.

The Higher Rate:

To be eligible for the higher rate, you must meet the requirements of the lower rate. In addition, you must also have a medical report from a recognised doctor that claims you have less than 12 months to live. If that applies to you, the government will provide you with a total of £101.75 per week.

Also, keep in mind that the rates can be changed depending on the circumstances. You must report the change in circumstances to the government if you are taking the attendance allowance. The beneficiaries of this allowance are also provided extra pension credits, housing benefits, and council tax reductions.

How Can You Apply for an Attendance Allowance?

If you believe that you are eligible for an attendance allowance, then let’s get to the application procedure. There are two ways you can get an application form:

• Printing it from the government website
• Calling a relevant helpline to claim a form

The form comes with detailed notes on how to fill it out. If you are unable to perform the task yourself, seek assistance. It is to be noted that once the form is filled out, it should be sent to the following address:

“Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance”

The point to be noted here is that you do not require a postcode or a stamp while submitting the form.

When Will You Get the Payment?

The attendance allowance cannot be backdated. This basically means that you will only be paid starting from the time period when you file a claim. If you have posted the form to the above-mentioned address, then the time period starts when the application is received by DWP. But if you have placed a call on the helpline, that will be counted as your starting point.

It is important to mention that for those who have less than 12 months to live, their applications are dealt with on a priority basis. And in case your application is rejected by the authorities, you can also ask for a mandatory reconsideration.

At CruseBurke, we understand that it can be tiring to understand all the complexities. Reach out to us, and we’ll arrange a meeting to answer all of your questions.

A Quick Summary

Attendance Allowance is provided to disabled people who are at the state pension age and living in the UK. The support aims to improve the quality of life so that the applicant can enjoy an independent life. The payments are made at two rates, for which we recommend studying the eligibility criteria in detail.

At CruseBurke, we sympathise with all disabled people. Therefore, we are always a call away. Get in touch with us today!