Carers/Attendance Allowance

Sorry Age UK!

You definitely need help to fill in the AA form because as has been said, the way you word it can be critical. Age Concern is a good source of help. AA is not means tested, but Carers Allowance can be affected by other State benefits or level of State Pension you may be receiving. Do get advice.

Age U.K. are supposed to be very good at helping with this.

One thing I’ve heard many times is, always describe things on the worst day (or night), don’t gloss over or play down anything because it doesn’t apply every day.

Age UK were brilliant when I was applying for benefits for an elderly relative. When I went back to thank them and tell them it was all sorted they were also very genuinely pleased for me.

Attendance allowance is for the person who needs help, carers allowance is for the person helping them. There is a minimum number of hours you need to be caring and there is a limit on how much income you can have and still claim. It was round about £100 a week when I claimed so probably a bit more now.

Good luck.

Auntieflo I did this form with help from a gentleman at our local AgeUK office two months ago. I would try ringing your nearest Office.

AuntieFlo, Age UK or village agents if you have such a thing will help because getting the wording right makes all the difference. DH was awarded the higher rate a couple of years ago and I am about to spend the money on buying in support because I can’t manage alone any longer. Payment starts from the date the form is received so it’s worth getting on with it. The form is quite long but not impossible. I attached the letter from the consultant confirming Parkinson’s and expect you have something similar which proves the condition which is the reason for the claim.

The allowance is not taxable and can be paid into the bank account of whoever will be spending the money.

Go for it!

The are very daunting aren’t they? Please remember black ink , sometimes forgotten when witnesses use own pens to sign. Just read very carefully, and don’t be afraid to ring them for advice if anything is unclear, I did a coup,e of times and they were very helpful. Good luck