State pensioners handed £208 cash boost on top of state pension
A benefit given to state pensioners has been given another cash boost in the latest Budget by Chancellor John Healey and Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
TL;DR
- Attendance Allowance payout is increasing by up to £4 per week for the higher rate and £2.70 for the lower rate.
- The benefit is not means-tested, so income and savings do not affect eligibility.
- It is available to state pensioners who need help with personal care due to an illness or disability.
- The lower rate is £79.40/week for daytime OR nighttime help, the higher rate is £118.60/week for daytime AND nighttime help or terminal illness.
- Eligibility requires being of state pension age and needing help for at least six months (or being terminally ill).
- Help with personal care includes assistance with bodily functions, dressing, and daily living.
- Claiming Attendance Allowance may help qualify for other benefits like Pension Credit or Housing Benefit.