Pensioners are the group of Britons most likely to miss Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits, according to Age UK. Attendance Allowance is the most under-claimed DWP benefit and can be worth up to £370 per month.
As inflation hit its highest level in 40 years this week, there has never been a more important time to ensure people claim all the financial support to which they are entitled.
The assistance allowance is intended for people who have reached the legal retirement age who suffer from a disability or a health problem and is paid by the DWP.
However, there are six common misconceptions that keep people from claiming this financial aid according to the Daily Record.
Another reason people are put off is that the forms can take a while to complete, but people should know they can ask Age UK for help.
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People must apply for an attendance allowance if they have problems bathing, bathing, moving around, eating or taking medication.
When filling out the form, they should remember to write down the help they need and not expect the person making the decision to know about their condition.
They should also remember to say how often they need help with tasks and to explain whether they have good days and bad days.
Another simple tip is to explain if certain tasks take longer and don’t be afraid to repeat information if it relates to more than one question.
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While pensioners are encouraged to apply, some readers have written to Express.co.uk to say the DWP makes it difficult for Britons to claim benefits such as Attendance Allowance.
One reader, Eileen Riley, 66, said she had worked hard all her life to be told she was not yet eligible.
She said: “I haven’t been able to work since May.
“I received a letter from my consultant indicating that a total hip replacement is necessary.
“I have always worked, I have never applied for benefits and I am of retirement age, but I cannot claim PIP because I am 66 years old.
“Something is wrong – other people like me need that money.”
Assistance allowance is paid to people who have reached the legal retirement age if they suffer from a disability or a health problem, but they must have struggled for at least six months, unless they are seriously ill.
Another reader, Lynda, 77, said she struggled to apply for an attendance allowance for her mother.
She and her husband spent an entire weekend filling out forms they said were unnecessarily complicated.
Lynda said: “It depresses you and makes you wonder ‘is it worth it?
“I don’t know how an elderly person without support is supposed to fill that.”