Calculator reveals whether you could claim benefit worth up to £9,584 as hundreds of thousands could be missing out

Free calculator tool available to find out whether you meet the criteria for Attendance Allowance

Latest figures reveal huge numbers of people across the UK under-claiming crucial financial support they are entitled to

A free calculator tool, launched by charity Blind Veterans UK today, could help hundreds of thousands of people across the UK claim a vital benefit worth up to £9,584 a year. Research by the charity reveals that only around half of the estimated 1.2 million people who are eligible for Attendance Allowance currently claim it. The new calculator tool makes it easy for people to check whether they are eligible for Attendance Allowance. Users are asked a series of questions about their daily life and care needs and the calculator then provides an immediate assessment of their eligibility. People who are eligible for Attendance Allowance should claim as soon as possible as they will not receive payments backdated before the date of their application.

Attendance Allowance benefits are paid to people over the age of 65 who need help with everyday personal care, including bathing, dressing and eating.

The amount of Attendance Allowance you receive depends on the level of support you need. The higher rate of Attendance Allowance is £92.40 per week, which equates to £4,809.60 per year. The lower rate of Attendance Allowance is £61.85 per week, which equates to £3,221.60 per year.

If you need support with tasks such as bathing, eating and dressing, you may be entitled to claim Attendance Allowance. People who need support with daily activities such as preparing and cooking meals, doing laundry and housework, may also be eligible to claim Attendance Allowance.

If you are eligible for Attendance Allowance, you should claim as soon as possible. You will not receive payments backdated before the date of your application. To claim Attendance Allowance, you can call the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122 or visit the Attendance Allowance website: www.attendanceallowance.org.uk