Attendance Allowance

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

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a benefit that you might be able to claim if you need help with care or have an illness or disability.

There are two different weekly rates, and the amount you get depends on how much help you need. Any money you do receive doesn't need to be spent on your care.

Is Attendance Allowance taxable?

The money you receive isn't taxable or means-tested – so your savings or income won't affect your claim. Claiming also won't affect any other benefits you receive. In fact, it can actually help you get other benefits such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction. 

How much Attendance Allowance could I get?

There are two rates of Attendance Allowance. What you get depends on the care you need. It's usually paid every 4 weeks.

These rates apply from April 2023 to April 2024. 

Am I eligible to claim Attendance Allowance?

You can claim Attendance Allowance if you meet all the following criteria:

• You're over State Pension age (if you haven't reached it, you may be eligible for Personal Independence Payment instead).
• You have any type of disability or physical or mental illness, including sight or hearing impairments and conditions such as dementia.
• You could benefit from help with personal care, such as getting washed or dressed, or supervision to keep you safe during the day or night.
• You have needed help for at least 6 months. But if you’re terminally ill you can make a claim straight away.

How do I claim Attendance Allowance?

To make a claim, you have to fill out the Attendance Allowance claim form. There are a couple of ways to get your form. You can:

• call the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122 
• download a claim form from GOV.UK.

When filling out the form, be really clear about how your illness or disability affects your life and attach any supporting information, such as GP letters, your care plans, or prescription lists. 

Once you've submitted your form, the Department of Work and Pensions may contact you for more information or arrange a visit from a doctor. It's a good idea to prepare for this visit by writing down things you think the doctor should know about. 

You'll get a letter about whether or not you’ll get Attendance Allowance, how much, and from what date. If you’re not happy with the decision, you can appeal.

Find out more about appealing a benefits decision

The Attendance Allowance form can be daunting. We have more tips that can help you fill it out. You can also visit your local Age UK for help from an adviser.