DWP 5,000 in a Year: Martin Lewis urges UK households to claim even if they have money

Financial expert Martin Lewis is encouraging pensioners to check if they qualify for Attendance Allowance, a benefit provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Many eligible individuals are unaware they can receive thousands of pounds each year, even if they aren’t struggling financially. In this guide, we’ll explain what Attendance Allowance is, who can claim it, and how you can apply.

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit available to pensioners with disabilities or health conditions that require regular help. This benefit can provide up to £108.55 per week—equivalent to £5,644 per year—regardless of income or savings.

How Much Can You Get?

The benefit is paid at two different rates depending on the level of care needed:

• Higher Rate: £108.55 per week (for those needing help both day and night)
• Lower Rate: £72.65 per week (for those needing help either during the day or at night)

Even if you qualify for the lower rate, you could still receive £3,777.80 annually, which can significantly ease financial burdens.

Who Can Apply for Attendance Allowance?

To be eligible for Attendance Allowance, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Age Requirement: You must have reached the State Pension age, currently 66 years old.
2. Disability or Health Condition: You need help due to a physical or mental disability that affects daily life.
3. Duration of Need: The need for care must have existed for at least six months unless you are terminally ill.
4. Residency Requirement: You must be in Great Britain and have lived in the country for at least two of the last three years.

Common Health Conditions That Qualify

Many health conditions could make you eligible, including:

• Arthritis
• Blindness
• Heart disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Asthma

Important: You cannot claim Attendance Allowance if you are already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

How to Apply for Attendance Allowance

Applying for Attendance Allowance involves filling out a detailed form, but Martin Lewis assures that the effort is worthwhile. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Request a Claim Form:
   • Call the DWP Attendance Allowance helpline or visit the Gov.uk website.
2. Complete the Form:
   • Provide detailed information about how your disability affects your daily life.
3. Gather Supporting Documents:
   • Include your National Insurance number, GP contact information, and medical records if available.
4. Seek Help if Needed:
   • Charities like Citizens Advice and Age UK offer free assistance to complete the form accurately.
5. Submit the Application:
   • Once completed, send the form to the address provided or apply online where available.

Pro Tip:

Don’t downplay your condition. Describe your worst days to ensure the DWP fully understands the challenges you face.

What Happens After You Apply?

The DWP will review your application and may contact your GP if more information is needed. Most decisions are based on the form and documentation alone, but in-person assessments can be scheduled if necessary.

You’ll receive a letter with the DWP’s decision. If approved, payments will be backdated to the date of your initial application.

Challenging a DWP Decision

If your claim is denied or you receive a lower amount than expected, you have the right to challenge the decision.

How to Appeal:

1. Request a Mandatory Reconsideration:
   • Contact the DWP within one month of receiving your decision letter.
2. Explain Your Case:
   • Clearly state why you disagree, referring to your condition and care needs.
3. Seek Support:
   • Charities like Age UK can help with appeals.

Real-Life Success Story:
Jannete, a listener of Martin Lewis’s podcast, applied for Attendance Allowance for her husband, who has early-stage Parkinson’s disease. Initially denied, she appealed by phone. After a brief follow-up call, the DWP reversed the decision and awarded the lower rate, with payments backdated to the application date.

Why You Should Apply Now

Policy in Practice estimates that 1.1 million eligible pensioners are missing out on Attendance Allowance. Even if you only qualify for the lower rate, the extra income can ease costs related to care or daily expenses.

Martin Lewis stresses that the allowance isn’t just for those in financial difficulty—it’s available to any pensioner with qualifying care needs. So, if you or someone you know might be eligible, apply today.

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