Claim Up to £441 from DWP by Providing These Seven Required Items
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for individuals over State Pension age who require support with daily personal care or supervision due to physical disabilities, mental health issues, or chronic illness.
Current Weekly Rates
- Lower rate: £73.90/week (for daytime or nighttime assistance)
- Higher rate: £110.40/week (for both daytime and nighttime support or terminal illness)
These benefits are paid every four weeks, totaling:
| Rate Type | Weekly Payment | 4-Week Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 |
The money can be used for anything that helps you live independently at home—not just for carers.
Who Qualifies for Attendance Allowance?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be over State Pension age (currently 66).
- Have a disability, illness, or mental health condition affecting their ability to care for themselves.
- Require supervision or help with personal tasks like:
- Dressing, eating, bathing, using the toilet.
- Getting in or out of bed.
- Staying safe.
You don’t need a full-time carer to apply.
Included Conditions
- Physical disabilities
- Mental health conditions
- Sensory impairments (e.g., blindness or deafness)
- Learning difficulties
These issues must be long-term and significantly impact your ability to manage daily tasks.
Changes for Scotland Residents
Residents in Scotland can no longer apply for Attendance Allowance. Instead, they must claim the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP), which mirrors the same eligibility criteria and payment structure.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
Applications involve completing a detailed claim form. This can be obtained:
- By phone via GOV.UK
- Through post
- With assistance from Citizens Advice or Independent Age
Top Tips from Independent Age
- Be detailed: Explain how your condition affects your daily life.
- Answer all questions and provide real-life examples.
- List the time it takes to complete tasks and the help needed.
- Describe fluctuations in your condition (good vs. bad days).
- Mention any activities you avoid due to difficulty.
- Explain what happens when you don’t receive the necessary care.
- Attach medical evidence from your GP or caregiver, if available.
Payment Usage: What Can the Money Go Toward?
You can choose how to use the funds, which may include:
- Transport costs (e.g., taxis)
- Household help (e.g., cleaners, gardeners)
- Utility bills or medical-related expenses
There’s no restriction on how the money must be spent, and you do not need to have a caregiver to qualify.
Important Financial Information
Impact on Other Benefits
Receiving Attendance Allowance can increase:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
Means-Testing
Attendance Allowance is:
- Not means-tested
- Tax-free
- Exempt from the Benefit Cap
Your income, savings, or whether you are working won’t affect your eligibility.
State Pension & Attendance Allowance
Receiving Attendance Allowance won’t reduce your State Pension and you can still receive both.
When You Should Apply for PIP Instead
If you’re nearing State Pension age, applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) might be beneficial. PIP could offer more support and may be available before you reach retirement age.
Who Cannot Apply for Attendance Allowance?
- Residents of Scotland (must apply for PADP).
- Those already claiming:
- PIP (Personal Independence Payment)
- DLA (Disability Living Allowance)
If you’re receiving DLA or PIP for care needs, you’re not eligible for Attendance Allowance. If your existing claim ends or is denied, you can then apply.
Attendance Allowance 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Requirement | Over State Pension age (currently 66) |
| Weekly Rates | £73.90 (lower), £110.40 (higher) |
| Paid Every 4 Weeks | £295.60 or £441.60 |
| Tax-Free | Yes |
| Means-Tested | No |
| Affects Other Benefits | Can increase other benefit payments |
| Applicable in Scotland | No (Apply for PADP instead) |
| Application Process | Detailed form; support available via Citizens Advice & Independent Age |
Attendance Allowance plays a critical role in supporting individuals over the State Pension age with extra financial help when managing long-term health conditions.
With non-means-tested payments and no requirement for a carer, it allows older adults to maintain independence and dignity in their homes.
Whether you’re applying for yourself or assisting a loved one, understanding the eligibility and completing the application with clear, honest details is essential for a successful claim.
FAQs
Can I claim Attendance Allowance and still work?
Yes, the benefit is available regardless of employment status and will not affect your income.
Does my partner’s income or savings affect my claim?
No. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so it’s based solely on your care needs, not household finances.
What happens if my health condition improves?
You must report any significant changes to your condition to the DWP. Your allowance may be reviewed or adjusted accordingly.
