If you were born before 1959 and currently receive the State Pension, there’s a financial support opportunity you might be missing out on. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has made it easier to apply for Attendance Allowance—a non-means-tested benefit that can provide up to £5,600 per year, paid tax-free. This could be a lifeline for older individuals dealing with health conditions that affect daily living.
Here’s everything you need to know about the benefit, who qualifies, and how to claim it.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a government benefit for people over State Pension age who have a physical or mental disability that requires personal care or supervision. Crucially, it is:
- Not means-tested – your income and savings don’t affect eligibility
- Not taxable – it won’t count against your other benefits
- Designed to help with the extra costs of living with a long-term condition or disability
It’s often used to fund carers, mobility aids, or other forms of support, helping recipients live more independently.
Who Can Claim Attendance Allowance?
You may be eligible if:
- You were born before 1959 (currently over State Pension age)
- You have a disability or health condition that affects your daily life
- You need help with personal care (e.g. bathing, dressing) or supervision for safety
- You are not living in a care home at the time of application
Eligibility is based on how your condition impacts your daily life, not the condition itself. Common qualifying conditions include:
- Arthritis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Dementia
- Mobility issues
- Vision or hearing impairments
If you require frequent support either during the day or night—or both—you may qualify for the higher payment rate.
How Much Could You Receive?
Attendance Allowance has two payment levels based on your care needs:
| Level of Care | Weekly Payment | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate (day or night care) | £72.65 | £3,777.80 |
| Higher Rate (day and night care) | £108.55 | £5,644.60 |
Most pensioners who need regular help both day and night qualify for the higher rate.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
The DWP offers three ways to apply, making it more accessible than ever:
1. Apply Online
A limited number of applications are accepted each week at:
🔗 gov.uk/attendance-allowance
2. Apply by Post
Download or request a paper form and mail it to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance (no stamp or postcode required)
3. Apply by Phone
Request a form via:
- Telephone: 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Relay UK: 18001 0800 731 0122
- BSL Video Relay: Available on the GOV.UK website
Note: If you’re applying on someone else’s behalf or hold Power of Attorney, you must apply by post.
What You’ll Need to Apply
When filling out the application, gather the following:
- National Insurance number
- Contact details (address and phone number)
- GP information
- A clear explanation of your condition and how it affects your daily life
- Details of any hospital stays or care arrangements
The more specific you are about the care you require, the stronger your application.
When Will Payments Begin?
The start of your payments depends on how you apply:
| Application Method | Payment Start Date |
|---|---|
| Online | From the date your claim is submitted |
| Post | From the date the DWP receives your form |
| Phone (if form returned within 6 weeks) | From the date of your call |
What If You’re Denied?
If your claim is rejected or underpaid, you have options:
- Request a Mandatory Reconsideration (first step in appealing)
- File a formal complaint if you believe the process was unfair
- Seek help from a citizen’s advice bureau or support group for guidance
Why You Shouldn’t Delay
With cost of living pressures still rising, many pensioners are missing out on valuable, tax-free support. Even if you already receive the State Pension, you can still qualify for Attendance Allowance—and it won’t affect your other entitlements like Pension Credit.
Whether you need help with bathing, medication, cooking, or just staying safe due to a health condition, this benefit is designed to help you maintain quality of life.
FAQs:
Is Attendance Allowance means-tested?
No. Your income and savings do not affect your eligibility.
Can I get this benefit even if I receive a State Pension?
Yes. Attendance Allowance does not impact your State Pension.
Do I need a formal diagnosis to apply?
No, but you must clearly show how your condition affects your ability to care for yourself.
