Kuni Lingston
As living costs continue to rise, so too will financial support for millions of older people in the UK. According to the latest updates from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Attendance Allowance and Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP)—the Scottish replacement—are set for an increase in April 2025, potentially reaching £447 per month for those on the higher rate.
This benefit provides essential financial help to people of State Pension age who have a disability or illness that requires support with daily tasks.
With nearly 1.7 million claimants already receiving payments—150,000 of whom reside in Scotland—the upcoming rise brings welcome relief for those needing additional care.
Why Attendance Allowance Is Increasing in 2025
The UK government increases disability and pension-related benefits each year in line with the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation rate.
For 2025, if CPI stays at 3.6% (the rate recorded in June 2024), Attendance Allowance payments would see a notable boost, helping recipients cover increasing daily living costs.
The confirmed rate will be officially announced during the Autumn Budget. However, early projections help claimants plan ahead.
Projected Attendance Allowance Rates for 2025
| Current Rate (2024) | Projected Rate (3.6% CPI) | Four-Week Payment Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| £73.90 per week (Lower) | £76.55 per week | £306.20 |
| £110.40 per week (Higher) | £114.35 per week | £457.40 |
If confirmed, those on the higher rate would receive £447+ every four weeks, providing crucial support for in-home care and daily living assistance.
Who Can Claim Attendance Allowance or PADP?
To be eligible for Attendance Allowance (England, Wales, Northern Ireland) or Pension Age Disability Payment (Scotland), you must:
- Be State Pension age or older
- Have a physical or mental disability
- Require help or supervision during the day or night
Examples of qualifying support needs:
- Personal care (bathing, dressing, eating, toileting)
- Safety supervision
- Painful or time-consuming daily tasks
- Use of aids like walking sticks or chairs for balance
Importantly, you can claim even if you don’t currently receive help, as long as the need exists.
Eligible Conditions for Attendance Allowance
You may qualify if you have any of the following:
- Arthritis or joint pain
- Mobility issues
- Parkinson’s disease
- Dementia or Alzheimer’s
- Heart disease
- Mental health conditions
- Sensory impairments (hearing or vision loss)
- Chronic illness or pain
How Much Could You Receive in 2025?
| Weekly Rate | Monthly Equivalent (4 weeks) | Use of Funds |
|---|---|---|
| £76.55 (Lower) | £306.20 | Toward light care, supervision |
| £114.35 (Higher) | £457.40 | Full care support, safety-related needs |
Recipients can use the money however they choose—whether that’s paying for a carer, hiring help for cleaning or errands, or covering transport and utility costs.
Key Benefits of Attendance Allowance and PADP
- Tax-free
- Not means-tested (savings and income don’t affect it)
- Won’t reduce State Pension
- May increase other benefits, including:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
How to Claim Attendance Allowance
Claimants must fill out a detailed form about their condition and daily needs. It may seem lengthy, but help is available from:
- Citizens Advice
- Disability support organisations
- Local councils
Scottish residents should apply for Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) through mygov.scot instead, as Attendance Allowance is now devolved.
Important Notes About Claiming
- You can apply even if you have savings or other income
- You can receive the benefit even if you’re still working
- You cannot receive Attendance Allowance if you’re already on PIP or DLA
- If your PIP or DLA ends, and you’re now over State Pension age, you may apply for Attendance Allowance
With inflation still impacting household budgets, the expected rise in Attendance Allowance to £447 per month in 2025 offers essential relief to millions of older adults across the UK.
Whether you’re currently receiving this benefit or planning to apply soon, understanding how the upcoming increase is calculated and how to claim successfully can make a significant financial difference.
As always, keep your information up to date, check your eligibility regularly, and don’t hesitate to seek help when completing your application. The support is there—you just need to claim it.
FAQs
Will Attendance Allowance affect my State Pension?
No, Attendance Allowance and PADP are completely separate from State Pension and will not reduce or replace it.
Can I still get Attendance Allowance if I have savings or a private pension?
Yes, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so savings, property, or other income will not affect your eligibility.
What happens if I already get PIP or DLA?
You cannot claim Attendance Allowance while receiving PIP or DLA for care. If your award ends and you’re eligible by age, you may then apply.