1.7 Million Brits Risk Losing £441 Monthly Payments—Key Changes You Must Report To DWP
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a crucial reminder to over 1.7 million individuals in the UK receiving Attendance Allowance benefits.
Failure to report certain changes in personal circumstances could lead to the cessation of monthly payments, which can amount to £441.
This benefit helps older citizens manage the extra costs of living independently. However, recipients must stay vigilant and inform the DWP promptly to maintain their financial support.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit provided by the DWP to help people over the age of 65 with personal care costs due to illness or disability.
It is designed to assist older citizens in maintaining their independence for a longer period, allowing them to continue living at home. In March, 1.7 million people were receiving this support.
Payments can range from £73.90 to £110.40 per week, depending on the level of assistance needed.
Reporting Changes to the DWP
To continue receiving Attendance Allowance payments, claimants must inform the DWP about any changes in their situation.
Failing to do so could result in a penalty or the suspension of benefits. Here are the key changes that need to be reported:
| Change in Circumstance | Required Information |
|---|---|
| Change in health condition | New details about the condition, frequency of help needed |
| Going into hospital or care home | Address, dates, and payment details of stay |
| Terminal diagnosis | Medical confirmation that the claimant has 12 months or less to live |
| Leaving the country for more than 4 weeks | Departure and return dates, travel details |
| Going into prison | Dates and prison information |
| Changes in personal details (name, address, bank info) | New contact and payment information |
| Stopping benefit payments | Request to cease payments |
Why is Reporting Important?
Reporting any changes ensures that the claimant continues to receive the correct amount of support based on their current situation.
If the situation has worsened, such as a decline in health or increased care needs, the Attendance Allowance amount could increase. Conversely, if the claimant no longer requires assistance, payments could be reduced or stopped.
It is essential to notify the DWP as soon as any of these circumstances arise. Not doing so could lead to penalties, including being taken to court.
If in doubt about the necessity of reporting a change, it is advisable to contact the DWP’s Attendance Allowance helpline.
How Much Could You Receive?
From March, Attendance Allowance payments are as follows:
| Rate | Eligibility | Amount per Week |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | Help during the day or at night | £73.90 |
| Higher Rate | Help both day and night, or terminally ill | £110.40 |
Attendance Allowance is paid every four weeks. So, claimants could receive £295.60 (lower rate) or £441.60 (higher rate) per month, which helps with a variety of living costs, such as paying for taxis, utility bills, cleaners, and more.
Health Conditions Supported by Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is available for a wide range of physical and mental health conditions. Here’s a brief list of conditions eligible for support:
- Arthritis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Dementia
- Chronic Pain Syndromes
- Blindness and Deafness
- Epilepsy
- Heart Disease
In addition to these, Attendance Allowance can assist people suffering from severe mental health conditions, including psychosis and learning difficulties.
If you’re one of the 1.7 million Brits receiving Attendance Allowance, it’s crucial to keep the DWP informed of any changes in your circumstances.
Doing so ensures that you receive the correct level of support and avoid disruptions in your payments.
Whether it’s a change in your health condition, hospital stay, or a shift in personal details, keep the lines of communication open with the DWP to ensure your benefits continue without interruption.
FAQs
What happens if I don’t report a change in my circumstances?
Failure to report a change could result in your Attendance Allowance payments being stopped. The DWP may impose penalties, or you could face legal action.
How do I report a change to the DWP?
You can contact the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122, Monday to Friday, from 8am to 6pm, or visit the GOV.UK website to update your details.
Can Attendance Allowance help with both physical and mental conditions?
Yes, Attendance Allowance supports people with both physical and mental health conditions, including those with conditions like dementia, learning difficulties, and severe mental health issues.
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