This month, individuals with certain health conditions are being urged to verify their eligibility for a vital support payment. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has identified 57 medical conditions that could make you eligible for a monthly payment of £434.
The DWP provides an attendance allowance to those with a disability severe enough to require someone else’s help for care. The amount you receive depends on the level of care you need due to your disability.
If you’re physically or mentally disabled, or of state pension age or older, you might qualify for this payment.
Like other benefits, the attendance allowance saw an increase in April. Last November, the government announced that state benefits would rise by 6.7 percent from April 8, reports Wales Online.
This means that from April 2024, if you qualify, you’ll have more money in your pocket. Here’s everything you need to know about the attendance allowance, including how to apply and how much you could receive.
What is attendance allowance?
Attendance allowance is a benefit provided if your disability is severe enough that you need someone to help take care of you. It’s paid at two different rates, and the amount you get depends on the level of extra care you need.
Attendance allowance isn’t determined by your income or savings, and it doesn’t cover mobility needs. However, other benefits you receive can increase if you get attendance allowance.
The lower rate is provided if you require frequent assistance or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night. The higher rate is allocated if you need help or supervision both day and night, or if a medical professional has indicated that your life expectancy might be less than 12 months.
In April 2024, both rates saw a 6.7 percent increase after the DWP adjusted most benefits in line with September’s CPI inflation figure.
What health issues could make you eligible for attendance allowance?
The DWP has a list of common health problems that might mean you can get attendance allowance. They are as follows:.
How can I apply for attendance allowance?
To apply for attendance allowance by post click here. You’ll receive notes with a form guiding you on how to complete it.
Send the filled out form to Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance. There’s no need for a postcode or a stamp.
You can call the attendance allowance helpline to request a copy of the form in different formats, such as braille, large print or audio CD. The helpline number is 0800 731 0122 and it operates from 8am to 6pm.
