If you were born before 1959 and are receiving the State Pension, there’s a significant update that could impact your financial well-being. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has streamlined the process for applying for Attendance Allowance—a benefit designed to support older individuals with physical or mental health conditions. If eligible, you could receive up to £5,600 per year, or £434 every four weeks, in tax-free payments.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care due to illness or disability. Unlike other benefits, your income and savings won’t affect your eligibility, and it’s not impacted by other benefits like Pension Credit or State Pension. It is intended to help cover the cost of care or the extra expenses linked to managing your condition.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must meet the following criteria:
- Born before 1959 (State Pension age or older)
- Have a disability or long-term health condition
- Require help with daily personal care, either during the day or night, or supervision for safety
- Not living in a care home at the time of applying
Common conditions include arthritis, Parkinson’s, dementia, and mobility or visual impairments, but eligibility depends more on how the condition affects you rather than the condition itself.
How Much Can You Get?
Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates, based on the level of care needed:
| 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 eligible pensioners qualify for the higher rate if they need frequent support both day and night.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
The DWP now allows applications through three convenient channels:
1. Apply Online
A limited number of online applications are accepted each week. Visit gov.uk/attendance-allowance to apply digitally.
2. Apply by Post
You can download and print the form or request one by calling the helpline.
- Send your completed form to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance (no stamp or postcode needed)
3. Apply by Phone
To request a form, call:
- Telephone: 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Relay UK: 18001 0800 731 0122
- BSL Video Relay: Available via the GOV.UK website
What Information Do You Need?
When applying, have the following details ready:
- National Insurance number
- Contact information (address, phone)
- GP details
- Condition description and how it affects your daily life
- Any recent hospital or care home stays
Who Cannot Apply Online?
You must apply by post if:
- You’re applying on someone else’s behalf
- You hold Power of Attorney
These applications require a paper trail for legal reasons.
When Will Payments Start?
Start dates vary depending on how you apply:
| Application Method | Start Date of Payment |
|---|---|
| Online | From the date you submit your claim |
| By post | From the date DWP receives your form |
| By phone (if form returned within 6 weeks) | From the date of your call |
What If You’re Denied?
If your application is rejected or the awarded amount is lower than expected:
- Request a Mandatory Reconsideration to have your claim reviewed
- File a formal complaint if you feel you received poor service
Why This Matters
With cost of living pressures rising, this benefit can help pensioners live more independently while managing long-term conditions. Whether you need help preparing meals, bathing, dressing, or staying safe due to mental health conditions or physical impairments, Attendance Allowance can help cover those extra costs.
Even if you’re already receiving State Pension, you may be missing out on this additional support. It’s tax-free, doesn’t affect your pension, and could make a real difference to your daily life.
FAQs:
Who is eligible for Attendance Allowance?
Anyone born before 1959 with a health condition requiring personal care or supervision, who is not living in a care home.
Is Attendance Allowance means-tested?
No, it is not affected by your income or savings.
How much can I receive?
Up to £434 every four weeks (£5,600 per year) depending on the level of care you need.
How do I apply?
Apply online (limited slots), by post, or by requesting a form by phone.
