Millions of pensioners in the UK may qualify for £108.55 per week through the Attendance Allowance program, managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This financial support is designed to help those with long-term illnesses, disabilities, or mobility issues who require assistance with daily activities.
If you or a loved one is struggling with personal care, you could receive up to £108.55 per week, depending on the level of help needed. This guide will walk you through who qualifies, how to apply, payment details, and common questions to ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.
Payment
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit, meaning it is available regardless of your income or savings. The payment is made every four weeks and is structured as follows:
| Rate | Amount (Weekly) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £72.65 | If you need help during the day OR night |
| Higher Rate | £108.55 | If you need help during the day AND night or are terminally ill |
Payments are directly deposited into the recipient’s bank account every four weeks.
Eligibility
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must meet specific criteria related to age, health conditions, and care needs.
Age Requirement
- You must be State Pension age or older to apply.
- As of 2025, State Pension age is 66 years and may increase in the future.
Health Condition Requirement
You must have a physical or mental disability that significantly impacts your daily life. Qualifying conditions include:
- Mobility issues (arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, joint pain)
- Cognitive impairments (dementia, Alzheimer’s disease)
- Chronic illnesses (heart disease, lung disease, diabetes complications)
- Sensory impairments (blindness, deafness)
Your condition must have required care or supervision for at least six months unless you are terminally ill, in which case you can apply immediately.
Care or Supervision Needs
To qualify, you must require help with at least one of the following:
- Dressing, washing, or bathing
- Moving around indoors safely
- Managing medications or ongoing medical conditions
- Supervision due to cognitive decline or memory loss
Application
Applying for Attendance Allowance is straightforward but requires detailed information about your health condition and care needs.
Step 1
You can obtain the Attendance Allowance form in three ways:
- Download it online: Gov.UK Attendance Allowance Form
- Call the DWP Helpline: 0800 731 0122 (Monday–Friday, 8am–6pm)
- Request a paper form by post
Step 2
The application will ask about:
- Your medical conditions and how they affect daily life
- Assistance you receive from carers, family, or friends
- Medical evidence (prescriptions, doctor’s notes, diagnosis letters)
Step 3
Once completed, send your form to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance
(No postage required)
Step 4
- The DWP typically processes applications within 6–8 weeks.
- They may contact your doctor for further medical details.
- In some cases, the DWP may request an assessment before approving the benefit.
Benefits of Attendance Allowance
Receiving Attendance Allowance can significantly improve a pensioner’s quality of life. It can help cover costs related to:
- Home care services
- Mobility aids and home modifications
- Transport to medical appointments
- Assistance with daily activities
Additionally, claiming Attendance Allowance may also make you eligible for other benefits, such as increased Pension Credit or Council Tax reductions.
The Attendance Allowance is a vital financial support system for pensioners who require extra help due to health conditions. With up to £108.55 per week, this payment can ease the burden of care expenses and improve overall well-being.
If you or someone you know qualifies, apply as soon as possible to receive the support needed. The process is simple—just fill out the form and send it to the DWP for review.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Attendance Allowance?
Anyone over State Pension age with a long-term illness or disability needing care.
How much is the Attendance Allowance payment?
Up to £108.55 per week, depending on care needs.
Is Attendance Allowance means-tested?
No, your income and savings do not affect eligibility.
How do I apply for Attendance Allowance?
Download the form from Gov.UK or request a paper form by calling DWP.
How long does it take to get a decision?
Processing usually takes 6–8 weeks, but may take longer if assessments are needed.
