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Attendance Allowance
This is a tax-free benefit for people aged 65 or over who have an illness or disability and need help with personal care.
Attendance Allowance is not affected by savings, and it is not usually affected by any other money you have coming in.
This information has been taken straight from the www.direct.gov.uk website
Who is eligible?
You are eligible for Attendance Allowance if you become ill or disabled on or after your 65th birthday and need help to look after yourself.
If you have a life expectancy of less than six months there are special rules to help you get Attendance Allowance quickly and easily.
Some people who make a claim for Attendance Allowance may be asked to have a medical examination.
How much do you get?
The actual amount you receive depends on:
Currently (as at February 2006) the rates are as follows:
Higer rate: £60.60 per week
Lower rate: £40.55 per week
How is it paid?
Attendance Allowance is paid directly into any account of your choice which accepts Direct Payment of benefits. This might be a bank, building society, Post Office or National Savings account.
If you need someone who cares for you to collect your money or are registered blind, payment can be made by cheque which can be cashed at the Post Office.
The person acting on your behalf may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance.
Effect on other benefits
If you start to get Attendance Allowance, it might increase other benefits you are getting.
How to Claim
You can ask for a claim form over the telephone, by contacting your benefits office or downloading the form from this website.
