Charity shares new Attendance Allowance tips to help older people get up to £434 each month

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Independent Age is encouraging older people with a disability or long-term health condition to check if they could be eligible for Attendance Allowance.

A successful claim for the non-means-tested, tax-free benefit is worth either £72.65 or £108.55 each week - the level of award depends on the amount of support someone needs.

Payments are made every four weeks and work out at £290.60 or £434.20 respectively. A little extra money can go a long way and you can use it however you like to meet your needs and help you stay independent in your own home longer - the money doesn’t have to be spent on a carer.Fran McSweeney, Head of National Services at Independent Age, presents two videos aimed at breaking down barriers to claiming and covers things to do before starting the long application form such as keeping a daily diary, taking your time answering the questions, especially as some may seem to be asking the same thing.In the video ‘Applying for Attendance Allowance’, Fran explains: “The Attendance Allowance form is long and you might feel like you’re repeating yourself because there’s lots of questions.

It can also take an awful long time to fill in, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time and get yourself comfortable before you fill it in.”Older people, or family members, who think they might be eligible can also use the factsheet on the Independent Age website here, or call the charity directly on 0800 319 6789 to get help or more information.