State pensioners could lose a perk worth £434 under Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) rules. State pensioners could be at risk of losing out on £434 in Attendance Allowance payments if they don’t pay attention to rules they must follow.
Older people have been warned any changes in circumstances must be reported to the DWP’s Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122 immediately, particularly if their condition alters, as this could impact entitlements or payments.
Official guidance from the DWP warns: “You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances.” You must contact the Attendance Allowance helpline straight away, the DWP says.
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Changes in circumstances which need to be reported to the benefits department include if the level of help you need or your condition changes – you’ll need to provide details like if the amount of times you need help each day has changed.
If your doctor’s details change or if your immigration status changes, if you are not a British citizen is another example. Other examples listed by the DWP incluide a medical professional has said you might have 12 months or less to live or if you change your name, address or bank details.
If you go into hospital or a care home – you will need to provide the address, the dates you’ve been there for, and how your stay is paid for – then you must also report it, the DWP, as well as if you go into prison or if you want to stop receiving your benefit.
The DWP also says if you plan to leave the country for more than 4 weeks then you must also report it to the DWP’s staff and benefits team.