Disabled state pensioners get easier access to care allowance, worth up to £108 a week

Disabled state pensioners can now apply for Attendance Allowance online, making it easier for many to access this crucial benefit.

Attendance Allowance is a benefit for state pensioners who need additional assistance and is worth up to £108 per week.

Around 1.6 million pensioners apply for the benefit, mainly by mail.

But the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has now opened up Support Allowance to online applications as well.

However, the online service can only handle a limited number of requests per week.

This is because the DWP is still configuring and fine-tuning the service.

Every Monday the DWP opens a new batch of applications, so pensioners who want to apply for Attendance Allowance online have the best chance if they do so early in the week.

Pensioners are also not allowed to use a mobile phone or tablet to apply, only a laptop or desktop computer.

How to apply for the assistance subsidy online

The first thing we should do is visit the Attendance Allowance section of the DWP website.

You must be over state pension age and have a disability that you need help with, such as arthritis, dementia, back pain or problems with your muscles, breathing, eyesight, heart or brain.

You must have needed that help for at least six months to be eligible for the Assistance Subsidy.

You will need your social security number, address, health details, GP details and their contact details.

If you apply online, your claim for assistance benefits will begin on the date you file your claim.

The DWP will tell you their decision within three weeks. If they reject your claim, you can appeal.