Benefits

Attendance Allowance (AA) helps people of pension age who have care needs and extra costs because of a health condition or disability. It is a non-means tested benefit, so it does not take into consideration income or savings, and won’t reduce other income you receive. However, AA may be taken into consideration when calculating how much you might need to pay for care services from your local council or trust.

AA is paid at two different rates and how much you get depends on the level of care you need.

Phone the AA helpline on 0800 731 0122 to request a claim form.

If you have been told you may have a life expectancy of 12 months or less, you will automatically receive the higher rate. You will need an SR1 form and, if eligible, we can support your application and apply for AA on your behalf.

SR1 Is a factual statement from your doctor or consultant describing your illness and treatment. It will support your benefit claim under ‘Special Rules for End of Life’ (SREL).

Pension Credit (PC) provides extra money to help with living costs for those over state pension age who are on a low income. You can still have savings and own your home to be eligible for Pension Credit however, if you have capital and savings above £10,000 this will be counted as income when your Pension Credit is calculated.

Phone the Pension Credit Claims Enquiry line on 0800 99 1234 to make a claim, or visit the government website for more information and to find out if you’re eligible.

Carers Allowance is a benefit for people who regularly spend at least 35 hours a week caring for a person who receives Attendance Allowance. You must be aged 16 or over and can earn up to £139 a week and still claim.

Carers Allowance counts in full as income for means-tested benefits but may entitle you to an extra amount. Contact the Carers Allowance Helpline on 0800 731 0297 or visit the government website for more information and to find out if you’re eligible.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) helps with extra living costs for those who find it difficult to do certain everyday tasks or get around. It is a non-means tested benefit so does not take into consideration income or savings. You can receive PIP even if you’re working, have savings or receiving most other benefits and the amount you receive will depend on your circumstances and need. You may also be eligible for a 50% reduction in vehicle tax if you receive the standard rate mobility component.

Call the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on 0800 917 2222 to start your claim and once you receive the application form you will have 4 weeks to complete and return to DWP

‘New Style’ Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) helps those who have limited capability for work because of their sickness or disability but do not get Statutory Sick Pay. You need to have paid enough National Insurance contributions in the past 2-3 years.

You can apply for ESA on the government website. If unable to make an online application call 0800 328 5644 and choose option 3.