Many older people in the UK receive money from the government through a benefit called Attendance Allowance. This money helps them manage everyday tasks like dressing, bathing, or eating. It allows them to live independently without needing full-time care.
But now, nearly 2 million older adults are being warned: if they don’t tell the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about certain changes in their lives, they could lose more than £440 a month. Some may even face legal trouble for not reporting.
Let’s break down what this benefit is and why it’s so important to keep the DWP informed.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a payment for people aged 65 and older who have a disability or health problem. It’s meant to support those who need help with personal care or supervision, but who don’t live in a care home full-time.
The amount of money depends on how much help someone needs:
- Lower rate: £73.90 a week (if you need help during the day or at night)
- Higher rate: £110.40 a week (if you need help during the day and at night, or if you are terminally ill)
This benefit is not taxed and doesn’t depend on your income or savings.
Why You Must Report Changes to DWP
The DWP needs to know if anything changes in your life that might affect how much help you need. Not telling them could result in:
- Your payments being stopped
- Being asked to pay money back
- Fines or even court action
Even small changes can affect your payment amount. The government has clearly said: “Tell us if anything changes.”
Health or Care Needs Change
If your health gets better or worse, or if you start needing more or less help, you must report this. This includes help with bathing, getting dressed, using the toilet, eating, or moving around. Even if things just take longer or feel more painful, you should let the DWP know.
You may also qualify for a higher payment if you now need extra help.
Hospital, Care Home, or Travel Abroad
The DWP must be told if you:
- Go into a hospital or care home
- Plan to travel outside the UK for more than 4 weeks
They need to know how long you’ll be away, where you’re staying, and who is paying for it.
Serious Health Condition
If a doctor has told you that you may have less than 12 months to live, it’s very important to inform the DWP. You may get faster support or even different benefits to help you during this time.
Personal Details Change
Did you move to a new house? Change your name? Get a new bank account? Or switch to a different doctor?
All of these things should be reported to the DWP. Keeping your personal info up-to-date helps make sure your payments continue smoothly.
Legal or Immigration Status
If you are not a British citizen and your immigration status changes, or if you go to prison, you need to tell the DWP immediately.
Need More Help Now?
If your daily activities have become harder — even if it’s just slower or more painful — you might now qualify for a higher amount.
You should also report changes if you now need help because of:
- Mental health issues
- Learning difficulties
- Being blind or deaf
Remember, it’s not just about physical health. Emotional or mental health changes matter too.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know receives Attendance Allowance, keeping the DWP updated is very important. Even small changes in health, care needs, travel plans, or living details can affect your payment. Not reporting can cause big problems like losing the allowance or facing fines. Always contact the DWP if you’re unsure.
It’s better to ask questions than to risk losing important financial support. Staying informed helps older people keep living independently and with peace of mind.
FAQ’s
1. What is Attendance Allowance used for?
Attendance Allowance is money given to older people who have a disability or health condition. It helps them pay for care and stay independent at home without needing full-time help.
2. Do I need to report changes if I go on vacation?
Yes. If you plan to leave the UK for more than 4 weeks, even for a holiday, you must tell the DWP. Not reporting this can affect your payments.
3. What if I need more help with daily tasks now?
If you now need more help with things like bathing, dressing, or eating, you might get more money. Tell the DWP right away, even if you’re not getting help yet but feel you need it.