Martin Lewis has highlighted that a large number of state pensioners in the UK may be overlooking valuable financial assistance from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). According to MoneySavingExpert, approximately 1.1 million individuals are not claiming attendance allowance, a benefit that can provide a significant annual boost of between £3,778 and £7,956. This benefit is available regardless of income as it is not means-tested and aims to support those of state pension age who require help with daily living tasks due to mental or physical disabilities.
The eligibility for attendance allowance is based on how much an individual’s life is impacted by their illness or disability, rather than specific conditions. To qualify, a person must have needed assistance with basic activities like washing, eating, and dressing for at least six consecutive months, regardless of whether they received help. Common conditions among attendance allowance recipients include Parkinson’s, dementia, terminal illnesses, visual impairments, and learning disabilities.
MoneySavingExpert explains that the basic attendance allowance is £73 per week, equating to £3,778 annually. There are two rates based on the level of assistance needed during the day and night. Additionally, eligibility for attendance allowance can also enhance a person’s pension credit and potentially lead to increased financial support, along with a council tax discount or additional housing benefit.
The government’s Gov. UK website emphasizes that attendance allowance is paid at different rates depending on the level of care required due to disability, ranging from £72.65 to £108.55 per week for personal support. This benefit does not cover mobility needs but may result in additional financial support through pension credit, housing benefit, or council tax reduction. One individual cited by MoneySavingExpert saw a substantial increase in financial assistance after claiming attendance allowance, demonstrating the significant impact it can have on individuals’ finances.
Overall, the revelation by Martin Lewis underscores the importance of ensuring that eligible individuals claim all relevant benefits and support available to them, particularly during their retirement years. By raising awareness about potentially overlooked benefits like attendance allowance, more pensioners could access the financial assistance they are entitled to, leading to improved financial security and well-being in their later years.