- The DWP has opened up online applications for a state pension top-up benefit
- But the new online service can only handle a few applications every week
Disabled state pensioners can now claim Attendance Allowance online, making the crucial benefit easier to access for many.
Attendance Allowance is a benefit for state pensioners that need some extra assistance, and is worth up to £108 a week.
Around 1.6 million pensioners claim the benefit, mostly by post.
But the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has now opened Attendance Allowance up to online claims too.
Postal disservice: Before now, Attendance Allowance could only be accessed by a postal form
However, the online service can only handle a limited number of applications a week.
This is because the DWP is still setting up and fine-tuning the service.
Every Monday the DWP opens a fresh new batch of applications, so pensioners wanting to apply for Attendance Allowance online have the best chance if they do so first thing in the week.
Pensioners also cannot use a mobile phone or tablet to apply, only a laptop or desktop computer.
How to apply for Attendance Allowance online
The first thing to do is visit the Attendance Allowance section of the DWP website.
You will need to be over state pension age and have a disability you need help with, such as arthritis, dementia, back pain or issues with muscles, breathing, eyesight, your heart or brain.
You must have needed that help for at least six months to be eligible for Attendance Allowance.
You will need your National Insurance number, address, health details, GP details and your contact details.
If you apply online, your Attendance Allowance claim will start on the date you make your claim.
The DWP will then let you know its decision within three weeks. If you are rejected you can appeal.
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