State Pensioners Can Claim Bonus £5,740 from DWP

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering state pensioners thousands of pounds in extra financial support through Attendance Allowance, a benefit designed for those living with long-term illnesses or disabilities.

Attendance Allowance is paid at two different weekly rates depending on the level of care required. Pensioners with lower needs receive £73.90 per week, which works out to £3,842 a year, while those needing more intensive support can claim £110.40 per week, totalling £5,740.80 annually.

To qualify, claimants must have reached the state pension age of 66 and meet the following conditions:

• Have a physical or mental disability, or both.

• Require help with personal care as a result of their condition.

• Have needed that help for at least six months, unless terminally ill.

There are 56 categories of eligible health conditions, including arthritis, back pain, heart disease, asthma, diabetes, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cancer, frailty, and infectious diseases such as Covid-19 and tuberculosis. Mental health conditions such as psychosis, dementia, and personality disorders are also covered.

Applicants will need their National Insurance number, details of their disability or illness, and their GP or care home information.

Pensioners can apply for Attendance Allowance online or by post. To apply via post, forms should be sent to Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance. For guidance, the Attendance Allowance helpline is available on 0800 731 0122 or 0800 731 0317.