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As the cost of living continues to rise, many older adults in the UK are struggling to meet their day-to-day care needs.
Fortunately, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers a benefit called Attendance Allowance, worth up to £110.40 per week — over £5,700 per year — for those over State Pension age living with a long-term illness or disability.
Surprisingly, many eligible pensioners don’t claim this benefit, often because they’re unaware of their eligibility.
In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the DWP’s Attendance Allowance, including who qualifies, how to apply, and which health conditions are most commonly linked to successful claims.
Overview of Attendance Allowance 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Attendance Allowance |
| Lower Weekly Rate | £73.90 |
| Higher Weekly Rate | £110.40 |
| Annual Value | Up to £5,740.80 |
| Eligibility Age | 66 and older |
| Means-Tested | No |
| Taxable | No – It’s tax-free |
| Application Method | By phone or post |
| Processing Time | Around 6–8 weeks |
| Most Common Conditions | Arthritis, dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s |
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit paid to pensioners who need help with daily personal care or supervision due to physical or mental health conditions.
There are two payment rates:
- £73.90 per week (Lower rate) – for help needed during either day or night.
- £110.40 per week (Higher rate) – for help needed during both day and night, or if terminally ill.
Even if you don’t currently receive professional care, you can qualify if you demonstrate the need for assistance.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be 66 or older (State Pension age)
- Have a disability or long-term health condition
- Have required help for at least 6 months (unless terminally ill)
- Live in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland
You don’t need a formal diagnosis, and you don’t need to have a carer in place. What matters is how your condition affects your daily life.
Top 5 Health Conditions That Make Up 75% of Claims
According to the latest DWP data, the majority of Attendance Allowance claims stem from just five common conditions:
- Arthritis (29%)
Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis often cause debilitating pain and limited movement. - Dementia (15%)
Memory loss, confusion, and cognitive decline frequently require constant supervision. - Neurological Disorders (13%)
Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Motor Neurone Disease lead to physical impairment. - Stroke or Cerebrovascular Disease (10%)
Post-stroke complications can involve reduced mobility, speech challenges, and personal care needs. - Respiratory Illnesses (8%)
Diseases like COPD or chronic asthma can severely impact breathing and independence.
Other health issues such as cancer, heart disease, mental health problems, and vision loss may also qualify.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
- Call DWP on 0800 731 0122 or visit gov.uk to request the form.
- Fill in the form detailing how your health condition affects tasks like:
- Washing
- Dressing
- Moving safely
- Preparing meals
- Taking medication
- Include supporting documents like:
- Doctor’s reports
- Medication lists
- Statements from carers or relatives
- Mail your completed application and keep a copy.
DWP decisions usually take 6 to 8 weeks, and payments are backdated to the request date.
How Can the £110.40 Be Used?
The benefit can be used as needed, including:
- Paying for home carers
- Installing mobility aids
- Managing transport costs
- Covering household assistance
- Handling heating and energy bills
Many pensioners use this payment to stay independent and avoid entering full-time care facilities.
Scotland Update
In Scotland, the Attendance Allowance is being gradually replaced with the Pension Age Disability Payment, managed by Social Security Scotland.
The structure and rates are similar, and existing claimants will be automatically transferred.
The DWP Attendance Allowance offers a vital financial lifeline to UK pensioners facing physical or cognitive challenges.
With £110.40 per week available and no income test required, it’s essential to check if you or your loved ones are eligible.
Don’t let this tax-free benefit go unclaimed — it could significantly improve quality of life and maintain independence in later years.
FAQs
Is Attendance Allowance counted as income?
No, it’s tax-free and does not count toward income-related benefits.
Do I need a carer to qualify?
No, you just need to show that you need care, even if you’re not receiving it.
Can you work and still get Attendance Allowance?
Yes, there are no work restrictions tied to Attendance Allowance eligibility.