Many older people in the UK are missing out on valuable financial support simply because they don’t realise they’re eligible. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has shared that nearly 1.7 million pensioners were receiving Attendance Allowance by the end of August 2024 – but thousands more could still claim.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Attendance Allowance for the 2025/26 financial year, including how much you could receive, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit for people who are State Pension age or older and need help with personal care due to a physical or mental disability. It helps people cover daily living costs and remain independent at home.
Unlike some other benefits, Attendance Allowance does not include a mobility component – it is purely to assist with personal care and supervision needs.
How Much Is It Worth?
During the 2025/26 financial year, Attendance Allowance is paid at two weekly rates, based on the level of care you need:
- Lower Rate: £73.90 per week
- Higher Rate: £110.40 per week
This is paid every four weeks, giving you:
- £295.60 per pay period (lower rate)
- £441.60 per pay period (higher rate)
This adds up to around:
- £5,740.80 per year (lower rate)
- £8,620.80 per year (higher rate)
Who Can Claim Attendance Allowance?
You can apply for Attendance Allowance if you are:
- Over State Pension age
- Living in the UK
- Have a long-term illness or disability
- Need help or supervision during the day or night
You may qualify even if you’re not currently receiving help. What matters is that you need assistance.
Examples of support that could make you eligible include:
- Help getting dressed or undressed
- Difficulty bathing, showering, or using the toilet
- Needing support to eat or take medication
- Trouble getting in or out of bed
- Needing someone to keep you safe
Even if tasks take a long time, cause pain, or require aids (like a walking frame or chair), you may be eligible.
You can also apply if you:
- Have mental health conditions
- Live with learning difficulties
- Are deaf or visually impaired
Common Conditions That Qualify
The DWP has released data on health conditions most often linked to Attendance Allowance claims. The top conditions include:
- Frailty – 100%
- Multiple Sclerosis – 52%
- Tuberculosis – 53%
- Traumatic Paraplegia – 54%
- Heart Disease & Neurological Diseases – 50%
- Spondylosis – 48%
- Learning Difficulties – 48%
- Arthritis & Asthma – 47%
- AIDS – 47%
- Epilepsy – 44%
Even less common conditions such as Cystic Fibrosis, Psychosis, Renal Disorders, and Cognitive Disorders are supported.
This is not a checklist – it’s just a guide to show the types of conditions covered.
Fast-Track for Terminal Illness
If you’re diagnosed with a terminal illness, there are special rules that allow for a fast-track application. You won’t need to wait as long or fill in as much paperwork. You can find details on GOV.UK.
How Do I Apply for Attendance Allowance?
To claim Attendance Allowance, you’ll need to fill out a claim form. While it may seem long and detailed, help is available.
Here’s how to get started:
- Request a form by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline or downloading from GOV.UK
- Ask Citizens Advice for help – they can guide you through the process
- You can also use the Citizens Advice online guide for step-by-step instructions
Don’t let the form put you off. It’s worth taking the time to apply if you need help with daily activities.
Final Thoughts
Attendance Allowance is a vital benefit for older people in the UK, helping them live independently with dignity and comfort. With payments worth up to £110.40 a week, this support can make a real difference in managing daily living costs. If you or someone you know might qualify, it’s worth checking – even if you haven’t needed help in the past.
You don’t need to struggle in silence. The benefit is not means-tested, so your income and savings don’t affect your eligibility. All that matters is how much help you need with daily tasks due to a health condition.
FAQs
What is Attendance Allowance and who can claim it?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision due to a long-term illness or disability.
How much is Attendance Allowance worth in 2025?
In the 2025/26 financial year, the lower rate is £73.90 per week and the higher rate is £110.40 per week, depending on the level of care needed.
Does Attendance Allowance include mobility support?
No, Attendance Allowance does not have a mobility component. It is solely for assistance with daily living tasks.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance if I live alone or don’t currently receive care?
Yes, you can still claim if you need help, even if you’re not currently receiving support from anyone. The benefit is based on your need, not your current situation.
What conditions qualify for Attendance Allowance?
Many conditions are supported including arthritis, dementia, Parkinson’s, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, and frailty. A wide range of mental and physical health issues are included.
How do I apply for Attendance Allowance?
You can apply by getting a form from the GOV.UK website, calling the Attendance Allowance helpline, or seeking help from Citizens Advice to fill in the form.
