Celebrating 66 years young!

Celebrating 66 years young!

Turning 66 may not be everyone's idea of a celebration, but as my Granny always said, it’s much better than the alternative.

Now that the allure of free bus travel is a faded memory there is at least one silver lining not many people are aware of; eligibility for Attendance Allowance. This tax-free benefit, brought in through the National Insurance Act in 1970, is designed to support seniors in coping with illnesses and disabilities of a hugely varying nature (frankly you’re pretty lucky to have gotten to sixty-six without one of the 57 ailments listed being applicable to you), helping people maintain their quality of life and independence.

Attendance Allowance offers financial assistance of over a hundred pounds per week in many cases, depending on the level awarded. This extra income can be an absolute game-changer for many, providing the means to cover additional costs associated with needing some extra help. Whether it's used for personal care, mobility aids, or simply to ease financial burdens, the choice is entirely up to the recipient.

One of the most appealing aspects of Attendance Allowance is its flexibility. It's not means-tested, so savings and income don't affect eligibility. Moreover, it can actually increase other benefits and open doors to additional support if applicable. For those concerned about maintaining their independence as time marches on, this money can be a crucial lifeline, enabling them to stay in their own homes longer and enjoy a better quality of life. Or, simply not feel a burden on volunteer family members or grown-up children sandwiched between caring for their parents and their own brood.

In essence, Attendance Allowance is more than just financial support – it's a tool for empowerment, helping seniors navigate the challenges of aging with dignity and comfort. However, the downside is that it is a nightmare to apply for – at thirty pages long the application process is lengthy to say the least and confusing to say it more clearly. 

It’s considered that nearly 60% of people don’t fulfil on an application enough to get it cleared which leaves a lot of people entitled to this payment without the opportunity to benefit. For example recent stats indicate that there are approximately only 424,000 people who claim for suffering from Arthritis out of 1.5million people who would currently be eligible.

Using an expert firm or analyst to support your application could be a smart decision and net you an extra £942 a month per couple if each of you are awarded the highest bracket.  They should only ever ask you to pay a pre-determined fixed fee – and only once their help has resulted in an approved case for you.  Whilst you are committing to pay for their time, the allowance awarded is lifelong, and would likely pay for itself within the backdated claim made on your behalf.