Talk Money Week Day 3: Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is a benefit that you might be able to claim if you are of pension age and need help with personal care because of illness or disability.
The amount is based on the help you require, whether or not you actually get this help. There are two rates depending on how the amount of help you need. If you are awarded Attendance Allowance, the money doesn’t have to be spent on your care and can be used for whatever purpose you want.
Attendance Allowance isn’t means-tested, so savings or income doesn’t affect your entitlement and isn’t counted against any other benefits you receive. It can actually increase your entitlement to other benefits such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Support.
To claim, you must complete a claim form which is available by telephoning the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122 or downloading from gov.uk.
In the form you should clearly explain how your illness or disability affects your ability to look after yourself and what help you need. Additional evidence should be sent, for example prescription lists, GP letters, care plans etc.
Once the claim has been submitted, the Department for Work and Pensions will cosider your application and might contact you or your doctors for more information, or may arrange a medical assessment in your home.
The decision will be sent in writing and you have the right to appeal if you are unhappy with the decision.
A resident who our Money Advice Officer recently successfully assisted with an application for Attendance Allowance said:
“This additional allowance will make an immediate and positive effect on our quality of life and our standard of living. We are now able to eat better and stay warm for longer, all down to your advice, proactive suggestions and not least positive intervention.”
For further information or advice regarding Attendance Allowance, Warrington Housing Association residents can contact us here.
