Numi Kent
Thousands of UK pensioners born before 1959 could be eligible for an annual payment of up to £5,740 under a little-known benefit called Attendance Allowance.
Designed to support older individuals dealing with long-term health conditions or disabilities, this benefit is often overlooked despite its substantial value and non-means-tested nature.
If you or someone you know is over State Pension age and requires care or supervision, you may be entitled to claim this tax-free financial support.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for people over State Pension age who live with a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition that requires regular help.
To be eligible, the claimant must have needed assistance for at least six months, and the condition must be severe enough to require daytime or nighttime care.
How Much Can You Receive in 2025?
The amount received depends on the level of care needed:
| Care Requirement | Weekly Rate | Monthly Payment (4 weeks) | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Help during the day or night | £73.90 | £295.60 | £3,842.80 |
| Help during both day and night or terminal illness | £110.40 | £441.60 | £5,740.80 |
These payments are issued every four weeks and can significantly improve the financial independence of pensioners facing health challenges.
How Can the Benefit Be Used?
One of the greatest advantages of Attendance Allowance is its flexibility. Recipients are not restricted on how they use the money. Whether it’s to:
- Hire in-home carers
- Improve mobility with equipment
- Modify their home for safety
- Pay for transportation to medical appointments
The benefit is designed to enhance the quality of life for pensioners with care needs, without dictating how the funds should be spent.
Eligibility Requirements for Attendance Allowance
You may qualify for Attendance Allowance if you:
- Are over State Pension age (currently 66)
- Suffer from a disability or health condition that requires care
- Have needed help for at least six months
- Live in England, Scotland, or Wales
- Are not already receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Importantly, you do not need to have a carer to apply. The focus is on your care needs, not whether someone is actually providing that care.
No Impact From Savings or Income
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, which means your savings, investments, or income do not affect your eligibility.
This makes it accessible to a wide range of pensioners—especially those who may assume they earn too much or have too many assets to qualify for support.
Don’t Forget Pension Credit
Another key benefit that complements Attendance Allowance is Pension Credit, which tops up income for low-earning retirees.
It’s estimated that 800,000 pensioners eligible for Pension Credit still haven’t claimed it. Both benefits can be received separately and simultaneously, potentially boosting monthly income by hundreds of pounds.
Millions of older adults in the UK could be missing out on vital financial support available through Attendance Allowance, worth up to £5,740 per year.
If you were born before 1959 and are dealing with a health condition that requires regular care, it’s worth exploring this benefit immediately.
With no impact from your savings or income and a simple application process, this support could make a significant difference to your well-being and independence.
FAQs
Who is eligible for Attendance Allowance?
Anyone over State Pension age who requires care or supervision due to a long-term health condition or disability for at least six months.
How much can I receive through Attendance Allowance?
You can receive either £73.90 or £110.40 per week, depending on your level of care needs, paid every four weeks.
Does savings or income affect eligibility?
No. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so neither savings nor income affect your eligibility.