Many older people in the UK get extra money from the government to help them live more comfortably. This payment is called Attendance Allowance. It helps people over 65 who need support due to health problems or disabilities.
But now, there’s an important warning — if they don’t tell the government about certain changes in their lives, they could lose up to £440 every month. So, it’s very important to know what changes to report and how to do it. Let’s break this down in a simple and clear way.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is money given by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It is for people aged 65 and above who need help with daily activities due to health problems. This help allows them to stay independent without needing a full-time carer.
As of August last year, around 1.7 million people were getting this allowance. The weekly payment is either £73.90 or £110.40, depending on how much help a person needs. These amounts change every year.
Why You Must Report Life Changes to DWP
The UK government says that anyone getting Attendance Allowance must report any changes in their life. If you don’t, you might:
- Lose your benefit
- Get a fine
- Be taken to court
Even small changes can affect your payments. For example, if your health improves or you move to a new place, your payments might go up or down. That’s why you should call the DWP helpline if anything changes.
Changes You Must Report to DWP
Here are the main things you must tell the DWP about:
1. Health or Care Needs Change
If your health condition changes — whether better or worse — you must report it. This includes:
- Needing more help during the day or night
- Needing less help
- Tasks taking longer, being more painful, or needing support
Even if you are not getting help right now but feel that you should, it’s still important to tell the DWP.
2. Hospital Stay, Care Home Stay, or Traveling Abroad
Let the DWP know if:
- You go into a hospital or care home
- You leave the UK for more than 4 weeks
You must give details like the place, length of stay, and who is paying for it.
3. Serious Health Condition
If your doctor says you might live less than 12 months, this must be reported. The DWP may provide quicker help or extra benefits.
4. Changes in Personal Information
Update the DWP if any of the following change:
- Your name
- Your home address
- Your bank account
- Your doctor’s details
5. Legal or Immigration Status
If:
- You go to prison
- Your immigration status changes
…and you’re not a British citizen, the DWP needs to know immediately.
When to Ask for More Help
Even if you don’t think your situation is serious, ask for help if tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, or using the toilet are getting harder.
You should also report if you need more help because of:
- Mental health problems
- Learning disabilities
- Being blind or deaf
Remember, help doesn’t only mean physical care. Even if you need someone around to guide or supervise you, it counts.
Conclusion
If you’re receiving Attendance Allowance, you must stay in touch with the DWP. Any change in your health, care needs, personal details, or travel plans can affect how much money you get. If you don’t report these changes, you could lose your payment or even face legal problems.
So, it’s always best to stay safe and let the DWP know everything. This way, you can keep receiving the money you need to live with comfort and dignity.
FAQ’S
1. What is Attendance Allowance?
It’s a benefit from the DWP for people over 65 who need help due to illness or disability.
2. How much can you get in 2025?
You can get either £73.90 or £110.40 per week, based on your care needs.
3. Do I need to report hospital or care home stays?
Yes, always tell the DWP where you’re staying and for how long.
4. Can mental health issues qualify for Attendance Allowance?
Yes, if you need daily help due to mental health or learning problems.
5. What if I forget to report a change?
You could lose your benefit or face legal actions like a fine or court case.