The DWP has launched a new online tool to help pensioners make a speedy claim for extra cash that could transform living standards.
Historically, people making a claim for Attendance Allowance had to do so through the post by either printing and submitting the form on GOV.UK, or by contacting the helpline on 0800 731 0122 to request one.
However, now people who claim the state pension and have some form of disability will be able to claim Attendance Allowance online.
Attendance Allowance is a benefit administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) which offers state pensioners either £72.65 or £108.55 each week.
The benefit is designed to help people of state pension age – currently 66 – with daily living expenses which can also help them stay independent in their own home for longer.
The most common conditions people who claim the allowance have are arthritis, dementia, heart disease, respiratory illness, muscle and bone conditions, cerebrovascular disease, back pain, visual disorders, Parkinson’s and neurological conditions.
The benefit is aimed at helping people with extra costs if they have a disability severe enough that they need someone to help look after them. There is no mobility element.
At the end of February 2024 more than 1.6 million older people were receiving additional financial support, according to the latest figures from the DWP.
The new guidance from the DWP explains that, currently, only a “limited number of applications” will be available via the online tool each week.
To benefit from the online services, pensioners will need to apply early on a Monday as the DWP only have a limited amount of applications.
People cannot apply online if they are an appointee, have power of attorney or have been told they are nearing the end of life.
Applicants have been advised that they need to set aside time and have all their information to hand if they want to apply as they cannot stop half way through as it will not save.
Attendance Allowance is worth either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) each week and as the benefit is usually paid every four weeks.
Each month, claimants can get either £290.60 or £434.20 – some £5,644.60 over the 2024/25 financial year. The amount of money someone receives depends on the level of support needed.
People on the lower rate usually need frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night.
Those on the higher rate usually need help or supervision throughout both day and night, or a medical professional has said they’re nearing the end of life.
As the new tool is getting developed, some people trying to access it may find it is not operating.
They will be met with a warning message that reads: “You cannot apply online today. This is because the service is still being developed, only a limited number of people can apply online each week.
“More applications will become available every Monday. You can still apply by post.”
What you need to apply
National Insurance number
Address and contact details
Details of the health condition or disability that they need extra help for
Details of their GP surgery or medical centre
When claiming Attendance Allowance, pensioners could get extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction if they are eligible.
They can check with the helpline or office dealing with their benefit.
