Across Great Britain, approximately 12 million adults live with hearing loss or deafness, yet only around 50,000 individuals currently receive financial aid via disability benefits such as PIP (Personal Independence Payment), Attendance Allowance, PADP (Pension Age Disability Payment), or ADP (Adult Disability Payment).
Among those over State Pension age, about 9,575 individuals are receiving Attendance Allowance due to hearing impairments. This includes a weekly payment of either £73.90 or £110.40, depending on the severity of the condition. Payments are disbursed every four weeks, resulting in totals of £296.60 or £441.60 per payment period.
Understanding Disability Benefits for Hearing Loss
Who Should Consider Applying?
- If you’re under State Pension age (66) and have a hearing-related condition, you may be eligible for PIP.
- If you’re 66 or older, you might qualify for Attendance Allowance, particularly if the hearing impairment affects your ability to manage daily tasks.
Claimant Breakdown (as of August 2024):
| Region | Claimants with Hearing Impairments |
|---|---|
| England | 7,948 |
| Scotland | 890 |
| Wales | 690 |
| Living Abroad | 26 |
| Total | 9,575 |
List of Commonly Supported Hearing Conditions
While there are 15 primary conditions commonly supported, this is not a fixed list. Additional or rare conditions may still qualify for support.
Conductive Hearing Loss
- Otosclerosis
- Mastoiditis
- Otitis externa (chronic)
- Chronic secretory/suppurative otitis media
- Trauma-induced conductive loss
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
- Congenital deafness
- Labyrinthitis
- Meniere’s disease
- Presbyacusis
- Trauma-induced sensorineural loss
Other Supported Conditions
- Mixed hearing loss
- Diseases affecting hearing and balance
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance helps individuals with physical or mental health conditions that make personal care difficult. It does not cover mobility support and you don’t need a caregiver to qualify.
Eligibility Criteria
You may be eligible if you:
- Need help or supervision during the day or night
- Have difficulty with tasks such as:
- Dressing
- Bathing
- Eating
- Toilet use
- Staying safe
Even those with mental health issues, learning disabilities, or sensory impairments like deafness may qualify.
How Much Can You Receive?
| Rate | Weekly Payment | Four-Weekly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £296.60 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 |
You can spend the allowance on:
- Transport (e.g. taxis)
- Utility bills
- Hiring help (cleaner, gardener, etc.)
Important Financial Considerations
- Not means-tested: Your income and savings do not affect eligibility
- Tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap
- Won’t impact your State Pension
- May increase other benefits, such as:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
To submit a claim:
- Request the form via post or phone through Gov.uk
- Get assistance from Citizens Advice if needed
- Alternatively, follow the step-by-step guide online for completing the form
Special Cases to Consider
- If you’re approaching State Pension age, it may be better to claim PIP first.
- If you reside in Scotland, you must apply for PADP instead of Attendance Allowance.
- You cannot receive Attendance Allowance if you already claim PIP or DLA for care needs. However, once those benefits end, you can apply for Attendance Allowance.
With millions living with hearing impairments in the UK, only a small percentage currently receive the financial assistance they’re entitled to.
If you or a loved one struggles with daily activities due to hearing issues—regardless of income or savings—you may qualify for Attendance Allowance, offering up to £441.60 every four weeks.
This support could go a long way in helping you remain independent and improve your quality of life. Take the first step and explore your eligibility today.
FAQs
Can I receive Attendance Allowance if I already claim PIP?
No, you cannot claim Attendance Allowance if you’re receiving PIP or DLA for care. However, you can apply once those benefits end.
Will my savings or income affect my Attendance Allowance claim?
No, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your income or savings do not influence your eligibility.
Can hearing conditions not listed still be eligible?
Yes, even if your condition isn’t on the official list, it may still be eligible under the “unknown” category or a related classification.