Kuni Lingston
If you’re aged 66 or over and need assistance with everyday tasks due to a long-term illness or disability, you could be entitled to up to £5,644 per year through Attendance Allowance—a valuable support provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit that can make a major difference in the quality of life for older adults.
Whether you live alone, have a carer, or require supervision to stay safe, this benefit is designed to help with the extra costs of care and open doors to further support.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a financial benefit aimed at helping older people who have a disability or health condition that affects their ability to look after themselves. The support is available to those who need help with personal care or supervision to stay safe.
Key features:
- Tax-free
- Not based on income or savings
- Won’t affect your State Pension
- Can increase eligibility for other benefits like Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must meet the following conditions:
- Be aged 66 or over (State Pension age)
- Have a physical or mental disability, including conditions such as arthritis, dementia, or sensory impairments
- Need help with personal care (e.g., dressing, washing, managing medication) or supervision for your safety
- Have needed help for at least 6 months (unless terminally ill)
- Have lived in Great Britain for 2 of the last 3 years
If you are terminally ill, you can apply under special rules, and support is granted immediately without the 6-month waiting period.
How Much Could You Receive?
There are two rates of Attendance Allowance depending on the level of support you need:
| Rate Type | Weekly Rate | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £3,842.80 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £5,740.80 |
- Lower Rate: For those needing help during the day or night.
- Higher Rate: For those needing help during both day and night, or who are terminally ill.
How to Apply
Applying for Attendance Allowance is simple, but being thorough with your responses is important. Here’s how to do it:
- Request the Application Form (AA1)
- Call the DWP to request a printed form or download it online.
- Complete the Form Carefully
- Describe how your condition affects your daily life. Be honest and detailed.
- Include examples, such as difficulty preparing food, needing help dressing, or requiring supervision due to memory issues.
- Include Medical Evidence
- Attach documents such as a doctor’s letter, prescription list, or hospital discharge papers if available.
- Submit the Form
- Post the form to the designated Freepost address provided in the pack (no stamp needed).
- Await the Decision
- You may be asked to attend a medical assessment.
- Decisions can take up to 8 weeks.
Real-Life Examples
- Margaret, 78: Lives alone and suffers from arthritis. She doesn’t need a full-time carer but has difficulty with dressing and bathing. She receives the lower rate, providing her with an annual total of over £3,800.
- John, 82: Has dementia and requires supervision both day and night. His daughter is his full-time carer. John qualifies for the higher rate, giving him over £5,700 yearly. His daughter is also eligible for Carer’s Allowance.
For Carers
If someone cares for you for at least 35 hours a week, they may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance, currently worth £81.90 per week.
Carer eligibility criteria
- Must be aged 16 or over
- Cannot earn more than £139 per week (after deductions)
- Must not be in full-time education
This additional benefit provides financial support to those who dedicate their time to helping family members or friends.
Additional Benefits You May Unlock
Receiving Attendance Allowance can increase your eligibility for other types of support, such as:
- Pension Credit (providing extra income)
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
- Warm Home Discount Scheme
- Free TV Licence (if over 75 and on Pension Credit)
Even if you’ve been turned down before, you can reapply, especially if your condition has changed or worsened.
If you or someone you love is over 66 years old and living with a long-term condition, claiming up to £5,644 per year through Attendance Allowance could make a significant difference.
It’s easy to apply, won’t affect your pension or other benefits, and could unlock even more financial help.
Don’t miss out on money that’s meant to support you. Check your eligibility, apply today, and get the help you truly deserve.
FAQs
Do I need to have a carer to claim Attendance Allowance?
No. You just need to show that you need help or supervision—not that you’re currently receiving it.
Can I still apply if I have savings?
Yes. This benefit is not means-tested, so your income and savings won’t affect your eligibility.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance if I’m in a care home?
Yes, but only if you pay for your own care without local authority support.