Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested UK government benefit for those over State Pension age needing help with personal care due to a disability or health condition. It aims to assist with the additional expenses these needs create.

 ​Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit that helps with the extra costs of disability. Eligibility is not based on income or savings. This ensures that qualifying individuals can receive support regardless of their financial circumstances.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Attendance Allowance in 2025, applicants must meet the following conditions:

  • Age Requirement: Must be at or above State Pension age.
  • Disability or Health Condition: Have a physical or mental disability, including sensory disabilities, that necessitates help with personal care or supervision for safety.
  • Duration of Need: Require assistance for at least six months prior to application.
  • Residency: Be habitually resident in the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man, or the Channel Islands, and have been in Great Britain for at least 2 of the last 3 years.
  • Other Benefits: Not receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Adult Disability Payment (ADP).​

Individuals who are approaching the end of their life are subject to specific regulations that enable faster claim processing and may qualify them for increased benefit amounts.

Payment Rates (2025–2026)

Attendance Allowance is paid weekly at two different rates, determined by the level of care required:​

  • Lower Rate: £73.90 per week
    • For those needing frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night.
  • Higher Rate: £110.40 per week
    • For those needing help or supervision throughout both day and night, or for individuals who are terminally ill.​

These rates are applicable from April 2025 to March 2026. ​

Application Process

Individuals can apply for Attendance Allowance using the following methods:

  1. Online Application:
    • A new online service is available, accepting a limited number of applications each week.
    • Not available for appointees or individuals with power of attorney.
  2. Postal Application:
    • Download and print the Attendance Allowance claim form.
    • Alternatively, request a form by contacting the Attendance Allowance helpline.​

Required information includes:​

  • National Insurance number.
  • Contact details and address.
  • Details of the disability or health condition.
  • Information about the GP surgery or medical centre.
  • Details of any care home, hospital, or hospice if currently residing in one.​

After Application

Upon submission:​

  • A text or letter will be sent within three weeks, indicating when to expect a decision.
  • If an assessment is necessary to determine eligibility, a letter will provide details.
  • Once a decision is made, a letter will explain the outcome.​

Applicants who disagree with the decision have the option to ask for a mandatory reconsideration.

Additional Information

  • Payment Method: All benefits are paid into a bank, building society, or credit union account.
  • Impact on Other Benefits: Receiving Attendance Allowance may entitle individuals to extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.
  • Care Home Residents: Individuals in care homes funded by local authorities are typically not eligible, unless they pay for their care themselves.
  • Carers: Having a carer is not a requirement for claiming. However, if a carer is present, they may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance.
  • Scotland Residents: Those living in certain areas of Scotland must apply for Pension Age Disability Payment instead. ​

Action Steps

  • Determine eligibility based on age, health condition, and residency.
  • Gather necessary information and documentation.
  • Choose the appropriate application method: online or postal.
  • Complete and submit the application form.
  • Monitor communications for updates or requests for assessments.
  • If needed, request a mandatory reconsideration following a decision.​

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