DWP warning as new Attendance Allowance applicants told 'can't do this' when making claim

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that Attendance Allowance is "currently undergoing a significant modernisation through the piloting of an online digital claim process". Pensions Minister, Torsten Bell, stated that these new measures will cut the application processing time for new claimants.

In response to Green Party MP Ellie Chowns' query about what steps DWP is taking to "reduce the time taken to reach decisions on Attendance Allowance applications," the DWP Minister outlined how customer feedback is being utilised to "design a transformed application that is shorter and easier, which focuses on collecting only the information we need to make a decision". He added: "This pilot will also support decision makers to handle claims more quickly with a significant reduction in requests for further information from customers." For those contemplating making a new application this summer, GOV.UK guidance indicates that the new online service will only accept a "limited number of applications each week".

It's crucial to note that the online application cannot be done using a mobile phone or tablet; it must be done via a desktop or laptop computer, reports the Daily Record.

Individuals can also apply by post by either printing and submitting the Attendance Allowance claim form available on GOV.UK, or by contacting the helpline on 0800 731 0122 to request one.

For postal applications, the DWP has recently revised its guidance to remind claimants they must "write anything except the Freepost address on the envelope" - officials also confirmed no postcode or stamp is required.

The most recent DWP statistics reveal that by the end of August 2024, almost 1.7 million elderly people were receiving extra financial assistance through Attendance Allowance, with 150,000 residing in Scotland.

Attendance Allowance provides weekly payments of either £73.90 (lower rate) or £110.40 (higher rate). The support is not means-tested, remains tax-free and is distributed every four weeks, totalling either £295.60 or £441.60 - reaching £5,740.80 throughout the 2025/26 financial year.

The amount individuals receive depends on their required level of assistance, with the benefit designed to support people of State Pension age with everyday living costs, potentially helping them maintain independence in their own homes for extended periods. Crucially, there is no mobility element included with Attendance Allowance.

Most-claimed health conditions and number of claimants:

Disease Of The Muscles, Bones or Joints - 86,319

Cerebrovascular Disease - 74,716

Back Pain - 74,804

Visual Disorders and Diseases - 50,993

Parkinson's - 44,440

Neurological Conditions - 35,597

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance assists with additional costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough that makes it hard for you to look after yourself - it does not cover mobility needs. You do not need to have someone caring for you in order to make a claim.

Who can claim?

You should apply for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and need help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night - even if you don't currently get that help.

This might include:

• Help with your personal care - for example getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering and going to the toilet.
• Help to stay safe

You should also apply if you have difficulties with personal tasks, for example if they take you a long time, you experience pain or you need physical help, like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance isn't just for people with a physical disability or illness.

You should also claim if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have:

• A mental health condition
• Learning difficulties
• A sensory condition - if you are deaf or visually impaired

What could I potentially receive on Attendance Allowance?

The current payment rates are concluding and will be superseded by the new ones on April 7. These have already been referenced earlier in this article, but as a reminder, the weekly rates will increase to:

• Lower rate: £73.90 (from £72.65)
• Higher rate: £110.40 (from £108.55)

You can utilise the money however you wish and it could assist you in maintaining your independence in your own home for a longer period.

This might include:

• Utilising it for taxis
• Contributing towards bills
• Employing a cleaner or gardener

Can I claim Attendance Allowance even if I possess savings and other income?

Indeed. Attendance Allowance isn't means-tested so it doesn't matter what other funds you have incoming or how much you have in savings either - there's no limit.

It is also tax-free and you will be exempt from the Benefit Cap so you won't have funds deducted from any other benefits.

Will Attendance Allowance impact my State Pension?

No, it won't influence your State Pension and you can even claim it if you're still employed and earning money.

How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?

The other benefits you receive might augment if you get Attendance Allowance, these include:

• Additional Pension Credit
• Housing Benefit Reduction
• Council Tax Reduction

How do I submit a claim?

Applying for Attendance Allowance involves filling out a lengthy claim form, which may seem intimidating at first. However, assistance is readily available from your local Citizens Advice, so don't let the paperwork deter you from applying.

If you're comfortable handling it on your own, you can follow the guide provided by Citizens Advice on how to complete your claim form. Comprehensive instructions on how to obtain the application form via post or phone are available on the GOV.UK website.

What if I'm nearing State Pension age?

If you're considering applying for Attendance Allowance as you approach State Pension age, it might be more beneficial to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) immediately - this could potentially result in a higher payout.

Who is ineligible for Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance cannot be claimed if you reside in Scotland; instead, you must apply for the devolved benefit - Pension Age Disability Payment from Social Security Scotland. More information can be found here.

You will not qualify for Attendance Allowance if you are already receiving PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to cover your care costs. If you attempt to claim Attendance Allowance while receiving DLA, the DWP will typically reassess your DLA award.

You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award expires, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can then apply for Attendance Allowance.

More details about Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV.UK website.