Our simple guide to Attendance Allowance

If you’re over State Pension age and living with an illness or disability, you might be entitled to Attendance Allowance – a benefit that can help you stay independent and manage everyday costs.

Many older people across East Sussex are eligible for this support but don’t realise they can claim it. At Age UK East Sussex, our Information and Advice team regularly helps local residents access the financial support they’re entitled to.

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision because of an illness or disability.

There are two weekly payment rates, depending on how much support you need.

Importantly, you don’t have to spend the money on care services. Many people use it in ways that help them stay independent at home, such as:

• Paying household bills

• Getting meals delivered

• Paying for taxis to appointments or social activities

• Buying equipment to make everyday tasks easier

• Paying for help around the home

Is Attendance Allowance taxable?

Attendance Allowance is not taxable and not means-tested, which means:

• Your income and savings do not affect your claim

• It won’t reduce other benefits you receive

In fact, receiving Attendance Allowance can sometimes increase other benefits, including:

• Pension Credit

• Housing Benefit

• Council Tax Reduction

  Am I eligible to claim Attendance Allowance?

  You may be able to claim Attendance Allowance if:

  • You are over State Pension age

  • You have a physical disability, illness, or mental health condition, including sight or hearing loss or dementia

  • You need help with personal care, such as washing, dressing, eating or managing medication

  • You need supervision to stay safe during the day or night

  • You have needed this help for at least six months

  If you are terminally ill, you may be able to claim straight away.

  Eligibility is based on how your condition affects your daily life, not the condition itself.

What medical conditions qualify?

Attendance Allowance isn’t awarded based on specific diagnoses. Instead, it looks at the level of support you need.

For example, you might qualify if you need help with:

Daytime care needs

• Getting washed or dressed

• Preparing or eating food

• Using the toilet

• Taking medication

• Supervision to stay safe

Night-time care needs

• Frequent help during the night

• Someone staying awake to supervise you

• Help getting in and out of bed or using the bathroom

The amount you receive depends on whether you need help during the day, at night, or both.

Download our information guides:

A guide to filling out Attendance Allowance claim form

Attendance Allowance information guide