DWP £434 Monthly Payments can be Stopped: If your circumstances have changed according to Attendance Allowance rules

Attendance Allowance is a financial support benefit provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help people over State Pension age who need extra assistance due to a disability or illness. If your health condition affects your daily life, you might be eligible for payments of up to £434.20 every four weeks, regardless of your income or savings.

In this guide, we’ll cover who qualifies for Attendance Allowance, how much you can receive, what changes you must report to the DWP, and how to apply for this valuable benefit.

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit designed to support pensioners with disabilities or health conditions that impact their day-to-day lives. The funds can be used for anything that helps maintain independence, such as:

• Paying for taxis for medical appointments
• Hiring a cleaner or home help
• Purchasing aids to make everyday tasks easier

You don’t need to have a carer to qualify; the benefit is based on your care needs, not your living situation or income.

How Much Can You Get?

The amount you receive depends on the level of care you need. Attendance Allowance is paid every four weeks and offers two rates:

Care Level	Weekly Rate	Monthly Payment (4 weeks)
Lower Rate	£72.65	£290.60
Higher Rate	£108.55	£434.20

Who Gets the Lower Rate?

You’ll receive the lower rate if you need help or supervision:

• During the day OR at night to stay safe
• With daily tasks like dressing, bathing, or taking medication

Who Gets the Higher Rate?

The higher rate applies if you:

• Need help both day and night
• Have a terminal illness and might have 12 months or less to live

Who is Eligible for Attendance Allowance?

To qualify, you must:

• Be State Pension age or older (currently 66 years old in the UK)
• Have a physical or mental disability that requires regular care or supervision
• Have needed help for at least 6 months (unless terminally ill)
• Be living in Great Britain and have spent 2 out of the last 3 years in the UK

Important: You cannot claim Attendance Allowance if you already receive:

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

When Should You Inform the DWP?

Certain changes in your situation can affect your Attendance Allowance payments. It’s essential to inform the DWP if:

• Your care needs change (either increase or decrease)
• You move into a hospital or care home
• A doctor tells you that you might have 12 months or less to live
• You plan to leave the UK for more than 4 weeks
• You go to prison
• You change your name, address, or bank details
• You want to stop receiving the benefit
• Your doctor’s details change
• Your immigration status changes (if you’re not a British citizen)

Failure to report these changes could lead to overpayments that you’ll have to repay later.

How to Contact the DWP:

• Attendance Allowance Helpline: 0800 731 0122
• Textphone: 0800 731 0317
• Relay UK: 18001 0800 731 0122 (for text relay)
• BSL Video Relay: Available for sign language users via computer

How to Apply for Attendance Allowance

Applying for Attendance Allowance is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Request a Claim Form:
   • Call the Attendance Allowance helpline or download the form from Gov.uk.
2. Complete the Application:
   • Describe how your disability affects your daily life. Be honest and detailed, especially about bad days.
3. Include Supporting Documents:
   • Provide your National Insurance number, GP’s contact details, and medical records if available.
4. Submit the Application:
   • Send the completed form to the address provided or apply online if possible.

Need help? Charities like Citizens Advice and Age UK offer free assistance with applications.

What If You’re Already on DLA or PIP?

• If you receive DLA, the DWP may reassess your claim instead of approving Attendance Allowance.
• If you are renewing PIP or DLA, you can only apply for Attendance Allowance if the renewal is unsuccessful and you still meet the eligibility requirements.

Attendance Allowance is a lifeline for pensioners who need extra help due to health challenges. With up to £434.20 every four weeks available, this benefit can ease financial pressure and help maintain independence.

Don’t miss out on this essential support—check your eligibility and apply today. If you need help, reach out to Citizens Advice, Age UK, or contact the Attendance Allowance helpline directly.

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