Attendance Allowance

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people with a disability or illness who are aged 65 or over and need help with personal care. It is not taxable, nor based on National Insurance contributions and is not means-tested so no information about your savings or income is necessary. It is paid on top of any other benefits you may be in receipt of.

Who can claim Attendance Allowance?

You may be able to get Attendance Allowance for help with personal care even if no one actually gives you any help. Examples include:-

• need help with washing, dressing or using the toilet,
• need someone there to supervise you,
• need someone with you when you are on dialysis.
• You must have had your qualifying illness or disability for at least six months and it must be expected to last beyond six months. Special rules apply to claiming Attendance Allowance for those who are terminally ill and not expected to live longer than six months. There will not be a six month qualifying period for anyone who qualifies under these rules. To claim you must ask your Doctor for a DS 1500 and follow the instructions in the claim pack for 'special rules'.

Download AgeUK Factsheet on Attendance Allowance:
Age UK Factsheets

Download Age UK Torbay Guide: How to Complete Attendance Allowance Form

gov.uk Attendance Allowance