This is a disability benefit that is known popularly as AA, it applies to people over the age of 65. Attendance Allowance is given as a tax free benefit to those who are classed as having a disability that stops them from caring for themselves leaving them exposed to danger.
There are two rates of AA, a higher rate and also a lower rate. You can qualify for the higher rate if you need round the clock supervision both day and night. For the lower rate it’s usually if you just require help during the daytime or even just occasionally.
To qualify and be eligible for the AA benefit you must have been in need of supervision for at least 6 months prior to your application. Typically you should need help and assistance with daily activities like eating, looking and applying for disability jobs, going to the bathroom, taking your medicine or getting dressed, etc.
In most cases the amount of savings you have in the bank do not affect the amount of Attendance Allowance you will receive.
Claims for AA can be made by going to a benefits office or applied for online by downloading the application form. Your claim will start from the day your claim form is received. If the person dealing with your case feels they need more information then they may ask you to attend a Disability and Carers Service centre for an examination by a Medical Service’s doctor. If you are not comfortable with this then you can also ask to be seen by the doctor at your own home if that is more convenient for you. To make you feel more at ease you can ask for a friend to be present with you or have a same sex doctor examine you. You should not be worried about the examinations as they may find that you are entitled to more benefits than what you applied for.
As with all other benefits it is normally paid directly into a recipient’s personal bank or building society account.
In certain cases you can also claim AA even if no one is providing you the care, if you live alone. Bear in mind that you can always ask for decisions regarding your disability benefits application to be reconsidered if you feel they are unfair.