The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could offer more than £400 per month to individuals suffering from back pain. Fresh data from the DWP shows that over 1.6 million elderly people are currently receiving extra financial aid through the Attendance Allowance.
This benefit, which totals either £72.65 or £108.55 weekly, is designed to assist those of State Pension age with daily living costs – it does not include a mobility component as it’s a non-means tested benefit. Arthritis remains the most common condition claimed by nearly 470,000 pensioners across Great Britain.
However, there are also 72,553 individuals aged over 66 claiming support for back pain. Back pain, particularly lower back pain, is very common and while it usually improves within a few weeks, it can sometimes last longer or keep coming back.
Around 2.5 million people across the UK experience back pain every day of the year and many may not be aware they could be entitled to financial support to help with any extra costs the condition causes. Many more people may be eligible for Attendance Allowance but simply do not know enough about it to make a claim.
Here’s what you need to know about the benefit, including how to start your application.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit specifically designed to help with additional costs if you’re dealing with a severe physical or mental disability or illness that makes self-care difficult. However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t cover mobility needs.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance even if I have savings and other income?
Yes. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your other income sources or the amount of savings you have do not matter – there’s no upper limit.
Plus, it’s tax-free and you’re exempt from the Benefit Cap, ensuring no deductions from any other benefits. Will my State Pension be affected by Attendance Allowance?
No, your State Pension will remain the same and you can still claim it even if you’re working and earning.
How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
Your other benefits might increase if you receive Attendance Allowance, these include: Additional Pension Credit, Housing Benefit Reduction, Council Tax Reduction. How do I make a claim?
A lengthy claim form needs to be completed when applying for Attendance Allowance.
While it may seem daunting at first, help is available from your local Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form put you off applying. If you’d prefer to handle it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to complete your claim form here.
What happens as I approach State Pension age?
If you’re considering applying for Attendance Allowance as you approach State Pension age, it might be more beneficial to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) immediately – you could potentially receive a higher amount. However, if you’re already receiving PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to cover your care costs, you won’t be eligible for Attendance Allowance.
If you apply for Attendance Allowance while on DLA, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will usually reassess your DLA award instead. You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award expires, as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can then apply for Attendance Allowance. More information about Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV.UK website.