Attendance Allowance is a vital benefit delivered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), designed to support older people with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
It helps individuals cover extra costs of daily living, enabling them to stay independent in their homes for longer.
As of the latest updates, nearly 1.7 million people in Great Britain are receiving this support. For some, a simple reassessment could increase payments by up to £146 per month, making a huge difference in meeting living expenses.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit, which means savings, income, or other pensions do not affect eligibility. Payments are made every four weeks, with two possible rates depending on care needs:
| Weekly Rate 2025 | Monthly Equivalent | Four-Weekly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| £73.90 (lower rate) | £295.60 | £295.60 |
| £110.40 (higher rate) | £441.60 | £441.60 |
Those currently receiving the lower rate could see payments boosted to the higher rate, an increase of £36.50 per week—equal to £146 per month.
Who Can Apply for Attendance Allowance?
Eligibility generally applies to people who:
- Are State Pension age (66+).
- Have a disability, illness, or health condition that requires help with personal care or supervision for safety.
- Have had these care needs for at least six months, unless they are terminally ill.
Common conditions supported include arthritis, heart disease, Parkinson’s, dementia, hearing or vision loss, and chronic pain syndromes.
Reporting Changes Could Boost Payments
If your health condition has worsened or you require more support than when your initial claim was approved, it is crucial to report a change of circumstances to the DWP. This may qualify you for the higher rate.
Examples of changes to report include:
- Increased need for help with dressing, bathing, eating, or mobility.
- More frequent supervision during the day or night.
- New medical diagnoses or worsening symptoms.
- Extended hospital stays, moving into a care home, or receiving end-of-life care.
Failing to report changes could mean missing out on higher payments you are entitled to.
What Can Attendance Allowance Be Used For?
The benefit is flexible and can be spent in any way that supports independence, such as:
- Paying for taxis or transport to appointments.
- Contributing to household bills.
- Hiring help such as a cleaner or gardener.
- Purchasing mobility aids or home adjustments.
This flexibility ensures recipients can tailor support to their individual needs.
Interaction with Other Benefits
Attendance Allowance does not reduce State Pension payments. In fact, it can increase entitlement to other benefits, including:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
This makes it a gateway to wider financial support, further increasing the value of the allowance.
Scotland’s Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP)
In Scotland, new claimants now apply for Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP), which mirrors Attendance Allowance rates (£73.90 and £110.40 weekly). Existing claimants will transition gradually to Social Security Scotland’s system by the end of 2025.
Why Boosting Attendance Allowance Matters
For many seniors, every pound counts when facing rising costs for food, heating, and medical needs. Boosting Attendance Allowance by £146 per month could be life-changing, particularly for those living on fixed incomes.
With conditions such as arthritis accounting for nearly 29% of all claims, it’s clear that many older people rely heavily on this benefit. Ensuring that awards reflect current care needs ensures fair financial support.
Attendance Allowance plays a critical role in supporting older people across the UK. For those currently on the lower rate, reporting changes in circumstances could unlock an extra £146 every month.
By staying proactive and keeping the DWP informed, seniors can maximize the benefit, cover essential costs, and maintain independence at home for as long as possible.
FAQs
How much can Attendance Allowance increase by?
If moved from the lower to higher rate, payments can increase by £36.50 per week, adding up to £146 per month.
Does Attendance Allowance affect my pension?
No. Attendance Allowance does not affect your State Pension and can even boost eligibility for other benefits like Pension Credit.
Who should report changes to DWP?
Anyone whose health has worsened or who now requires more frequent support with daily tasks should contact the DWP helpline.
