The little-known benefit for pensioners.

Millions in the UK remain unaware of Attendance Allowance, a government benefit designed to ease financial pressures for those facing health challenges in later life.

Attendance Allowance is a benefit for pensioners with a disability or health condition that requires regular assistance.

Even if you have a healthy bank balance or a comfortable pension income, you might assume you don’t qualify for financial support – but that’s not the case with Attendance Allowance. Crucially, the payment, which can be up to £5,644 per year, is not means-tested, meaning anyone who qualifies will get it regardless of their income or savings. It is also tax-free, so it won’t affect your tax status.

Despite the financial support provided by Attendance Allowance, over a million eligible pensioners in the UK are not claiming it.

Increased awareness could significantly improve quality of life for many elderly individuals, helping them manage daily challenges more effectively.

Could you, or someone you know, benefit?

Claimants for Attendance Allowance must be over state pension age, currently 66 years old for both men and women, and have health conditions or disabilities which require support.

Attendance Allowance has two weekly rates, and the rate you get depends on the help you need.

• Higher rate: If you need frequent care or supervision during the day and at night
• Lower rate: If you need frequent care or supervision during the day or at night

The higher rate is currently £108.55 per week and the lower rate is £72.65.

Attendance Allowance rates have been confirmed to increase by a further 1.7% in April. This means that from 7th April 2025, the higher rate of Attendance Allowance will be worth £110.40 per week, while the lower rate will be worth £73.90 per week. This adds up to £5,740.80 and £3,842.80 per year respectively. The benefit is not ring-fenced, meaning that you do not necessarily have to use this money to pay for care.

To make an application for Attendance Allowance you need to fill out a form. You can obtain a form by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122, or you can apply online: www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance/how-to-claim. The form is extensive, but don’t let that discourage you from submitting a claim.

Department for Work and Pensions agents will generally make their decision based on the information shared on the form, so it’s important to include everything that might be relevant. Supporting evidence such as a letter from your GP or consultant, your care plan, or prescription lists, can be included with your application.

After applying, you should receive a notification within three weeks outlining when to expect a decision. Once a decision has been made you will receive a letter that explains the outcome.

Navigating care options and funding can be overwhelming. At Home Counties Carers we are happy to offer free, no-obligation advice. As an award-winning home care provider, we have a wealth of knowledge and experience. Whether you’re planning for the future or need immediate assistance, we are here to provide guidance and compassionate care.

Call Home Counties Carers for expert advice on 01483 224 985, and to learn more about your options and how we can help.