Older pensioners in the UK are set to receive welcome financial support this August. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that individuals born before 1959 may be eligible for up to £5,600 a year through Attendance Allowance. This benefit is designed to help with the cost of personal care for those with disabilities or serious health conditions — and the application process is now simpler than ever, including a new online option.
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What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit provided to older people who need help with personal care. Unlike some benefits, it doesn’t depend on your income or savings — eligibility is based purely on your health and care needs.
It can be claimed whether you live alone or with family, and it’s aimed at supporting daily living for those with a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition.
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify for Attendance Allowance if:
- You were born before 1959.
- You have a physical or mental disability or health condition.
- You require help or supervision with personal care during the day, night, or both.
- You are not living in a council-funded care home.
Payment Rates for 2025
The amount you can receive depends on the level of care you need:
| Rate Type | When You Qualify | Amount per Payment Period | Estimated Annual Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower rate | Need help during day or night | ~£260–£270 | ~£3,500 |
| Higher rate | Need help during both day and night | £434 | ~£5,600 |
The higher rate offers a significant boost for pensioners facing higher care costs.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
The DWP now offers three convenient ways to apply:
- Apply Online
- Use the new digital form for faster processing (only a limited number of online applications are accepted each week).
- Apply by Post
- Download the form from the official UK Government website, print, and complete it.
- You can also request a paper form by phone.
- Apply by Phone
- Call the Attendance Allowance helpline:
- Telephone: 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Relay UK: 18001 0800 731 0122
- British Sign Language (BSL) users: Use the video relay service
- Call the Attendance Allowance helpline:
Documents Required
Before applying, prepare:
- National Insurance number
- Full address and contact information
- Details of your health condition or disability
- Doctor’s contact information
- Details of any hospital or care home stays
Payment Schedule
Your payment start date depends on how you applied:
| Application Method | When Payment Starts |
|---|---|
| Online | From the date you submit your application |
| By post | From the date DWP receives your form |
| By phone | From the date you requested the form (if returned within 6 weeks) |
If Your Claim is Rejected
If your application is denied or you receive less than expected:
- Request a mandatory reconsideration — DWP will review your case.
- File a complaint if you believe the process was handled unfairly.
FAQs
1. Can I get Attendance Allowance if I already receive another benefit?
A: Yes. Attendance Allowance can be claimed alongside other benefits, and it may even increase the amount of other benefits you receive.
2. Do I need a formal diagnosis to apply?
A: No, but you must provide medical evidence of your condition and how it affects your daily life.
3. How long does it take to process an Attendance Allowance claim?
A: Processing can take several weeks, depending on your application method and whether additional information is required.
Sir
Mother Telikicherla Sitalakshmi review diagnosis done
Month end operation will take necessary assistance for financial
Date of birth 07.06.1956
I have never had these payment and I am on pension pension credit carers allowence I was born 14/101954
Wil I be eligible for this
Attendance allowance is not influenced by any other benefits you receive. It is totally dependant on your physical and mental health and your care needs. Type attendance allowance UK into Google and it will bring up the website. Read it carefully or get someone at an advice center to advise you as to whether you qualify. The form on line is the easiest to complete but make sure your doctor is aware of your health difficulties before you include them on the form.