Kuni Lingston
Thousands of older adults in the UK may be missing out on extra support through Attendance Allowance, a benefit designed to help with daily living costs. According to the latest data from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), nearly 1.7 million people across Great Britain are receiving this non-means-tested support.
However, many of them could increase their monthly payments by £146, simply by updating the DWP about a change in their circumstances.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit for people over State Pension age who need help due to a disability, illness, or health condition. It provides financial support to help claimants remain independent in their own homes.
The benefit is not based on income or savings and is available to people needing support either during the day, night, or both.
This benefit has now been replaced in Scotland by Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) for all new claims, but current claimants still receive the same rate as Attendance Allowance.
Attendance Allowance Payment Rates 2025
| Rate Type | Weekly Amount | Four-Week Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 |
If you currently receive the lower rate, you could gain an extra £36.50 per week or £146 per month by reporting changes that may qualify you for the higher rate.
Who Can Qualify for Higher Attendance Allowance?
If your health has worsened or your needs have increased since your last claim, you could be entitled to a higher level of support. Common scenarios where you should consider reporting a change include:
- You now need help or supervision both during the day and night.
- Your condition is causing increased pain, delays, or difficulty with personal tasks.
- You’ve been diagnosed with an additional health condition.
- A medical professional has indicated that your condition is terminal or life-limiting (less than 12 months to live).
Conditions Commonly Supported by Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance supports a wide range of physical and mental health conditions, including but not limited to:
- Arthritis (most common – 29% of claimants)
- Back pain and musculoskeletal disorders
- Heart disease, asthma, chest diseases
- Blindness, deafness, and sensory impairments
- Neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and MS
- Mental health disorders, dementia, learning difficulties
- Diabetes, cancer, kidney disease, and terminal illnesses
Even if you’re already claiming for one condition, the development of another or a worsening of symptoms may make you eligible for increased payments.
When Should You Report a Change?
You should contact the DWP if:
- You need more help with daily living (dressing, bathing, eating).
- You now require night-time support.
- A medical professional has changed your diagnosis or care expectations.
- You’ve moved to or returned from a care facility or hospital.
- You are leaving the UK for more than 4 weeks.
How to Report a Change
To report a change, call the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122, open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
It’s strongly advised to seek independent advice before doing so, as reporting a change can lead to:
- An increase in your benefit
- No change in benefit
- A potential decrease if your needs are assessed as lower
If you’re receiving the lower rate of Attendance Allowance, there’s a real opportunity to increase your monthly income by £146—up to £441.60 every four weeks.
With rising living costs, that extra amount can be vital in helping you stay independent and manage daily living needs. Don’t delay; if your condition has changed, check your eligibility today.
FAQs
Is Attendance Allowance means-tested?
No, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested and does not depend on your income or savings.
Will reporting a change always result in higher payments?
Not necessarily. The DWP will reassess your condition, and payments may increase, stay the same, or decrease.
Can I use Attendance Allowance payments however I want?
Yes, the money is intended to help you live independently and can be spent as needed, with no restrictions.