Here is everything you need to know about Attendance Allowance
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released the latest figures, revealing that more than 1.6 million elderly individuals were benefiting from Attendance Allowance by the end of May 2024.
Those looking to apply this summer should note the updated guidance on GOV.UK, which now indicates that the new online service will only process a “limited number of applications each week” and cannot be accessed via mobile phones or tablets, but rather through a desktop or laptop computer.
For postal applications, claimants can download and send the Attendance Allowance form, which is available on GOV.UK, or request one by calling the helpline at 0800 731 0122. The DWP has also reminded applicants to write the Freepost address on the envelope without a postcode or stamps, reports the Daily Record.
A DWP spokesperson said: “We are temporarily testing a new online service to make claiming Attendance Allowance easier and to improve accessibility. While the online service is not yet widely available, no-one will miss out on the benefit as claimants can still apply in the usual way by post.”
Attendance Allowance, a benefit designed to assist individuals of State Pension age with daily living expenses, is valued at either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) per week. Paid every four weeks, this equates to either £290.60 or £434.20 each pay period, totalling around £5,644.60 over the 2024/25 financial year.
The amount received depends on the level of support required and can help recipients maintain their independence at home for longer. It’s crucial to note that Attendance Allowance does not include a mobility component.
The list below shows the main health conditions supported by this benefit across Great Britain, but it’s not a checklist for claiming. Here are the conditions:
- Arthritis – 469,902 claimants
- Dementia – 170,225
- Heart Disease – 120,914
- Respiratory Conditions – 100,530
- Diseases Of The Muscles, Bones or Joints – 83,594
- Cerebrovascular Disease – 73,475
- Back Pain – 72,553
- Visual Disorders and Diseases – 50,107
- Parkinson’s – 43,367
- Neurological Conditions – 34,604
Below is everything you need to know about Attendance Allowance including the main health conditions being claimed, eligibility and how to make a claim.
Attendance Allowance explained
Attendance Allowance is a benefit designed to help with additional costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough that it makes self-care difficult. It’s important to note that this allowance does not cover mobility needs, and you don’t need to have a carer to be eligible to claim.
Who can claim?
If you have a disability or illness and require assistance or supervision throughout the day or night – even if you’re not currently receiving that help – you should apply for Attendance Allowance. This could include needing help with personal care tasks such as dressing, eating, getting in and out of bed, bathing, using the toilet, or staying safe.
You should also consider applying if you struggle with personal tasks, for example, if they take a long time, cause pain, or if you need physical support like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance isn’t just for people with a physical disability or illness.
You should also claim if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have a mental health condition, learning difficulties, or a sensory condition – such as being deaf or visually impaired.
How much could I get on Attendance Allowance?
You could receive either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) each week. This amounts to either £290.60 or £434.20 every pay period.
The money can be spent however you wish and could help you maintain your independence at home for longer. This might include paying for taxis or contributing towards bills.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance even if I have savings and other income?
The answer is yes. Attendance Allowance isn’t means-tested, so your other income or the amount of savings you have doesn’t matter – there’s no limit.
It’s also tax-free and you’ll be exempt from the Benefit Cap, meaning you won’t lose money from any other benefits.
Will Attendance Allowance affect my State Pension?
No, it won’t impact your State Pension and you can even claim it if you’re still working and earning money.
How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
Your other benefits might increase if you get Attendance Allowance. These could include Extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit Reduction, and Council Tax Reduction.
How do I make a claim?
You’ll need to complete a lengthy claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem intimidating at first, but help is available from your nearest Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form deter you from applying.
If you’d prefer to do it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to fill in your claim form here. Full details of how to get the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
What happens if I am about to reach State Pension age?
If you’re considering applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) straight away – you may be able to get more money.
Who is ineligible for Attendance Allowance?
If you’re already receiving Personal Independence Payment to cover your care costs, you won’t be eligible for Attendance Allowance. If you apply for an Attendance Allowance while receiving DLA, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will typically reassess your DLA award instead.
You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award expires, provided you still meet the eligibility requirements. If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can then apply for Attendance Allowance.
More information about Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
