Q My husband, 65, has been receiving the lower rate of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) since he was 59. He is waiting for two knee joints, but it will be at least two years before he will be ready to have the operation. Is there anything he can claim if his condition gets worse?

A The mobility element of DLA, which goes to those who are virtually unable to walk, can only be claimed by people under 65, but he could claim the middle rate of DLA for care. This is for those needing frequent attention in connection with their bodily functions, for example, help with such things as getting up from a chair, moving about the house, climbing stairs, dressing, getting in and out of bed, eating, bathing and visiting the toilet. However, it is possible that his claim could not only be rejected, but he could also lose the lower rate that is currently in payment.

Q My late wife and I worked in Australia for nine years. When my wife retired in this country, she received an Australian pension. However, this did not apply to me when I retired. Why not?

A As we have a reciprocal agreement with Australia, contributions paid there count towards State Pensions claimed here. So your late wife's pension might have been a UK State Pension based upon her Australian contributions. Your Australian contributions would have counted towards yours too. For a definite answer, contact Overseas Pensions, Tyneview Park, Newcastle NE98 1BA.

Q I applied for an increase in my Incapacity Benefit for my wife. Although she is over 60, I have not claimed before as she has had Carer's Allowance, which has recently finished. The Pensions Service tells me she must first claim her State Pension and they will make up the balance to £45.70 a week. Must she take her pension?

A That is not what the Pensions Service has told me. If your wife does not want to take her pension, you must be paid the full increase for her on your Incapacity Benefit. By putting off taking her pension, she will get more when she finally decides to take it.