Millions of pensioners in the UK could be eligible for weekly payments of up to £108.55 through the Attendance Allowance program. This financial support, provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is designed for those who need extra help due to long-term illnesses, disabilities, or mobility issues.
If you or a loved one struggles with daily tasks due to health conditions, you may qualify for this benefit. In this article, we will look into the eligibility criteria, payment details, and the application process to help you claim the support you deserve.
Allowance
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit for people over the State Pension age who have a long-term physical or mental health condition. It helps cover extra costs related to personal care or supervision needs.
Unlike other benefits, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. This means your income and savings do not affect your eligibility. If you qualify, you will receive payments every four weeks to help with essential care needs.
Eligibility
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must meet the following conditions:
Age Requirement
You must be at least State Pension age, which is currently 66 years old.
Health Condition Requirement
You must have a physical or mental health condition that significantly affects your daily life. Common conditions that qualify 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)
You 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
You must need help with daily activities such as:
- Dressing, washing, or bathing
- Moving around indoors safely
- Managing medications or health conditions
- Supervision due to cognitive decline
Payments
The amount you receive depends on the level of care you need.
| Rate | Amount | Who Is Eligible? |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £72.65 per week | If you need help during the day OR night |
| Higher Rate | £108.55 per week | If you need help during the day AND night, or if you are terminally ill |
Payments are made every four weeks, directly into your bank account.
Application
Applying for Attendance Allowance is simple but requires detailed information about your condition.
Get the Application Form
You can:
- Download it online from Gov.UK
- Call the DWP Helpline at 0800 731 0122 (Monday–Friday, 8 am–6 pm)
- Request a paper form by post
Fill Out the Application
The form asks for:
- Details of your medical condition and how it affects daily activities
- Any assistance you receive from carers or family members
- Medical evidence such as prescriptions or doctor’s letters
Submit the Form
Send the completed form to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance
(No postage required)
Await a Decision
- Processing time is typically 6–8 weeks
- The DWP may contact your doctor or request an assessment
Attendance Allowance can make a significant difference in managing daily care costs. If you or a loved one meets the eligibility criteria, applying could provide much-needed financial relief. The process is straightforward, and since the benefit is not means-tested, your savings and income won’t impact your claim.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Attendance Allowance?
Pensioners with long-term health conditions affecting daily life.
How much is the weekly payment?
You can receive up to £108.55 per week.
How often are payments made?
Payments are made every four weeks.
Does my income affect eligibility?
No, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested.
How long does the application process take?
It usually takes 6-8 weeks for a decision.
