People over State Pension age could get extra cash (Image: Shared Content Unit)
People of State Pension age who suffer from a number of heart conditions could be eligible for hundreds of pounds in additional financial support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Attendance Allowance, which amounts to either £72.65 or £108.55 per week – or 2290.60 or £434.20 every four-week pay period – is designed to help older people with extra daily living costs, allowing them to stay in their own homes for longer.
The DWP provides support for a range of health conditions through Attendance Allowance, with over 118,000 individuals receiving payments to assist with heart-related issues such as angina, coronary heart disease, arrhythmia, and high blood pressure. Angina, characterised by chest pain due to decreased blood flow to the heart muscles, is not usually life-threatening but acts as a warning sign for potential risk of a heart attack or stroke.
It’s estimated that there are 96,000 new cases of angina each year, with around two million people in the UK now diagnosed with the condition. If you’re living with a heart-related condition that makes everyday tasks like cooking, washing or dressing difficult, you could be eligible for Attendance Allowance.
This benefit is currently being claimed by a significant number of older people across Great Britain for heart conditions, according to the Daily Record. Here’s what you need to know about Attendance Allowance and how to apply via GOV. UK.
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What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit designed to assist with the additional costs that come with having a severe physical or mental disability or illness that makes self-care difficult. It’s crucial to understand that this allowance does not cover mobility needs, and you don’t need to have a carer to apply.
You should consider applying for Attendance Allowance if your disability or illness necessitates help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night – even if you’re not currently receiving that assistance. This could encompass help with personal care such as dressing, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, and using the toilet.
It could also include help needed to ensure your safety. If you struggle with personal tasks, such as needing a long time to complete them, experiencing pain, or requiring physical assistance like leaning on a chair, you should consider applying for Attendance Allowance.
This benefit isn’t solely for individuals with physical disabilities or illnesses. It’s also applicable if you require help or supervision throughout the day or night due to mental health conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory conditions like being deaf or visually impaired.
How much you could get
The amount you could receive from Attendance Allowance varies. If you need help during the day or at night, you could receive £72.65.
However, if you need help both during the day and at night, or if you’re terminally ill, the amount rises to £108.55. The benefit is paid every four weeks, meaning you could receive either £290.60 or £434.20 each pay period.
The money can be used as you wish, potentially aiding you in maintaining your independence at home for longer. This could include covering taxi fares, contributing towards bills, or paying for services like a cleaner or gardener.
Even if you have savings and other income, you can still claim Attendance Allowance. As it’s not means-tested, your other income or savings won’t affect your eligibility.
Plus, it’s tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap, so it won’t reduce any other benefits you receive. Finally, claiming Attendance Allowance won’t impact your State Pension.
You can even claim it while you’re still working and earning money. If you receive Attendance Allowance, your other benefits might increase.
How can I apply?
These could include additional Pension Credit, a reduction in Housing Benefit, and a decrease in Council Tax. To apply for Attendance Allowance, you’ll need to fill out a lengthy claim form.
Although it may seem intimidating at first, assistance is available from your local Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form deter you from applying.
If you prefer to handle it yourself, the Citizens Advice guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to fill in your claim form here. . Detailed guidelines on how to get the application form by post or phone are available on the GOV.UK website.
However, if you’re already receiving PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for your care costs, you won’t be eligible for Attendance Allowance.
If you apply for Attendance Allowance while receiving DLA, the DWP will usually reassess your DLA award instead. You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award expires, as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria.
If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can apply for Attendance Allowance instead.
