| DLA (Disability Living Allowance) and AA (Attendance Allowance) are probably
the two most important benefits for people with any sort of longer-term illness
or disability - including mental health problems.
They are, very broadly speaking, ‘extra’ money for people who don’t manage
‘well’ when left to their own devices - either because of difficulties looking
after themselves, communicating and socialising, or because of some sort of
‘risk’.
They are paid ON TOP OF ANY other income and are not means tested in any way. In
fact getting one of these benefits can qualify you for MORE means tested income
as well. In fact claiming these benefits can only ever leave you financially
better off.
You can also theoretically work and get DLA / AA if you still have the care and/
or supervision needs to qualify you—but if you are considering work, you do need
to be aware that some people have had their DLA suspended when they start
working.
Receiving one of these benefits (any rate of AA or the middle or higher ‘Care’
component of DLA) can also entitle someone to claim Carer’s Allowance for
looking after you, although if they do, it could trigger a drop in your own
means tested benefits—get advice!
The main difference between the two benefits is that DLA is for children/ people
who are under 65 when they first claim. It is made up of Mobility and Care
Components To get DLA you must have had your difficulties for the last three
months and they must be likely to continue for the next six.
AA is for people who are 65 or over when they first claim. It only looks at
people’s Care needs. The qualifying conditions for AA are identical to those for
the middle and higher rate of the Care Component of DLA. To get AA you must have
had your difficulties for the last six months and they must be likely to
continue for the next six.
‘New’ claim packs
were introduced in 2003 for AA
click here
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