What Other Benefits Can You Claim with Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance (AA) is a benefit for people in Great Britain who have reached State Pension age and need help with personal care due to disability or illness. While AA itself is a non-means-tested benefit, receiving it can sometimes help you access other benefits or support, depending on your circumstances.
Additional Benefits and Support Linked to Attendance Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance: If you receive Attendance Allowance, a carer who looks after you for at least 35 hours a week may be able to claim Carer’s Allowance. This benefit is paid to people who provide regular care and meet certain eligibility criteria.
- Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction: Being awarded Attendance Allowance may improve your chances of qualifying for help with rent or council tax, as local councils and housing authorities often consider AA as evidence of extra care needs. However, eligibility for these benefits depends on your income, savings, and other factors.
- Blue Badge Scheme: Receiving Attendance Allowance can support your application for a Blue Badge, which provides parking concessions to people with mobility difficulties.
- Disabled Facilities Grant: Some local authorities may consider Attendance Allowance when deciding on grants to adapt your home to make daily living easier.
Important Distinctions and Considerations
Attendance Allowance is for people who have reached State Pension age and live in Great Britain. If you live in Scotland, you need to apply for Pension Age Disability Payment instead.
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your income or savings do not affect your eligibility. However, other benefits you might claim alongside AA may have different rules regarding income and savings.
Receiving Attendance Allowance does not automatically guarantee entitlement to other benefits. Each benefit has its own eligibility criteria and application process, so you should check the specific requirements for any additional support you wish to claim.
Practical Example
For example, if you are awarded Attendance Allowance because you need help with dressing and washing, a family member who cares for you regularly might be able to claim Carer’s Allowance. Separately, you might apply for a Blue Badge to assist with parking due to mobility difficulties. However, you must apply for these benefits individually and meet their specific conditions.
Where to Confirm Details
Because benefit rules can be complex and subject to change, it is advisable to check official government sources or seek advice from a welfare rights adviser when considering what other benefits you might claim alongside Attendance Allowance.
Official reference: https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance/how-to-claim. Always check the latest official guidance. Related forms: Browse our form category.
Important: This article provides general information. Government rules, forms and procedures can change, and this article may not reflect the latest updates. Check current GOV.UK guidance or the relevant authority before relying on it. ITG & Co. is independent and is not affiliated with a government department.