Back pain is one of the most common health problems listed by claimants
Arthritis tops the list as the most common condition claimed by over 508,960 pensioners on Attendance Allowance across Great Britain. However, there are also 78,845 people over 66 claiming support for back pain.
Back pain – particularly lower back pain – is a common ailment and while pain usually improves within a few weeks, the pain can become recurring and chronic, especially as we age. Around 2.5 million people across the UK live with back pain every day of the year and may not realise they could apply for financial support to help with any extra costs the condition causes.
The latest figures from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show there are now over 1.7 million older people receiving additional financial support through Attendance Allowance. This payment is not means-tested and worth either £72.65 or £108.55 each week, and is designed to help people of State Pension age with daily living expenses. However, there is no mobility component attached to this benefit.
Whether someone qualifies for Attendance Allowance does not depend on savings or income and the benefit is paid every four weeks which means someone on the lower rate will receive £295.60 every pay period while those on the higher rate will receive £441.40, reports the Daily Record.
An estimated 20 million people across Great Britain are living with arthritis or similar conditions that affect the joints. If you’re one of them, dealing with arthritis, back pain, joint pain, muscle pain, or chronic pain, you could be eligible for support.
There’s a good chance that many more individuals could qualify for Attendance Allowance or PADP but simply lack sufficient information to make a claim. Here’s a brief rundown of what you need to know about Attendance Allowance, including how to kick-start your application. Comprehensive details about claiming Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV.UK website.
It’s also worth considering making a claim for Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) if you or a family member are below State Pension age.
What is Attendance Allowance for?
Attendance Allowance is designed to help with additional costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness deemed severe enough to make self care more taxing – it does not cover mobility needs. Claimants don’t need to have someone caring for them to qualify.
Who is eligible?
You should consider applying for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and require assistance or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night. Even if you’re not currently receiving that help, you can still make a claim. This might include assistance with personal care tasks such as dressing, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, and using the toilet.
If you struggle with personal tasks, for instance, if they take a long time, cause pain, or require physical assistance like leaning on a chair, you should apply. Attendance Allowance and PADP are not solely for individuals with a physical disability or illness.
You should also claim if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night due to a mental health condition, learning difficulties, or a sensory condition – such as being deaf or visually impaired.
How much could I receive?
You could be eligible for £73.90 if you require help during the day or at night, or £110.40 if you need help both during the day and at night, or if you are terminally ill. The benefit is paid every four weeks, meaning you could receive either £295.60 or £441.40 each pay period.
The money can be spent however you wish and could assist you in maintaining independence in your own home for longer. This might include expenses such as taxi fares, contributing towards bills, or hiring a cleaner or gardener.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance or PADP even if I have savings and other income?
Yes, both Attendance Allowance and PADP are not means-tested, meaning your income or savings do not affect your eligibility. Furthermore, these benefits are tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap, ensuring no deductions from any other benefits you may receive.
How does Attendance Allowance affect State Pension entitlement?
No, your State Pension will not be affected by claiming this benefit and you can still claim if you’re working and earning. Your other benefits might increase if you receive Attendance Allowance or PADP. These could include:
- Additional Pension Credit
- Reduction in Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
How to claim
To apply for Attendance Allowance, you’ll need to fill out a lengthy claim form. While it may seem intimidating initially, assistance is available from your local Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form deter you from applying.
If you’d rather complete it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to fill in your claim form here. Comprehensive instructions on how to obtain the application form by post or phone can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
What if I’m nearing the State Pension age?
If you’re considering applying for Attendance Allowance upon reaching State Pension age, it might be more beneficial to claim PIP immediately – you could potentially receive more money.
Who is ineligible for Attendance Allowance?
You won’t qualify for Attendance Allowance if you’re already receiving PIP. You can renew your PIP when the current award expires, provided you still meet the eligibility requirements. If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can apply for Attendance Allowance instead.
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