Many pensioners in the UK may be entitled to £108.55 per week through the Attendance Allowance program provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This financial support is designed for individuals who need assistance with daily activities due to long-term illnesses, disabilities, or mobility issues.
If you or a loved one requires extra care, you might be eligible for these payments. This guide covers everything you need to know, including who qualifies, how much you can receive, and how to apply.
Payment Details
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit, meaning your income and savings do not affect your eligibility. Payments are made every four weeks, helping pensioners manage the cost of care.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to £108.55 per week (paid every 4 weeks) |
| Lower Rate | £72.65 per week (help needed day OR night) |
| Higher Rate | £108.55 per week (help needed day AND night) |
| Eligibility | Pensioners with long-term health conditions |
| How to Apply | Submit the Attendance Allowance form via post |
| Processing Time | Decision usually made within 6-8 weeks |
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit designed to support people over State Pension age who have physical or mental health conditions that make daily tasks difficult.
Unlike some other benefits, it is not means-tested, so even if you have savings or a pension, you can still qualify. It can be used to help cover care costs, mobility aids, or home assistance.
Who Can Claim?
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must meet these conditions:
1. Age Requirement
- You must be State Pension age or older (currently 66 or over).
2. Health Condition Requirement
You must have a long-term physical or mental health condition that affects your daily life. Conditions that may qualify include:
- Mobility issues (arthritis, joint pain, Parkinson’s disease)
- Cognitive impairments (dementia, Alzheimer’s disease)
- Chronic illnesses (heart disease, diabetes complications, lung disease)
- Sensory impairments (blindness, deafness)
You must have needed care or supervision for at least six months, unless you have a terminal illness, in which case you can apply immediately.
3. Care or Supervision Needs
To qualify, you must require help with:
- Personal care (washing, dressing, using the toilet)
- Mobility support (moving around indoors safely)
- Medical supervision (help managing medications or conditions)
- Monitoring (due to cognitive decline or mental health conditions)
Payment Rates
Attendance Allowance has two payment levels, based on the level of care you need:
| Rate | Amount | Who Qualifies? |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £72.65/week | If you need help during the day OR night |
| Higher Rate | £108.55/week | If you need help day AND night or have a terminal illness |
Payments are made every four weeks directly into your bank account.
How to Apply
Applying for Attendance Allowance is straightforward but requires detailed information about your health condition and care needs.
1. Get the Application Form
- Download it online: Gov.UK Attendance Allowance Form
- Call the DWP Helpline: 0800 731 0122 (Monday–Friday, 8 am–6 pm)
- Request a paper form by post
2. Fill Out the Application
The form will ask for:
- Your medical conditions and how they impact daily activities
- Assistance received from carers, family, or support workers
- Medical evidence (doctor’s letters, prescriptions, or care reports)
3. Submit the Form
Send the completed form to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance
(No postage required)
4. Await a Decision
- Processing time: 6–8 weeks
- The DWP may contact your doctor or request an assessment
Once approved, payments are made directly into your bank account every four weeks.
Why Claim Attendance Allowance?
Many pensioners miss out on Attendance Allowance because they assume they won’t qualify or don’t want to go through the application process. However, it can make a huge difference in covering the costs of care, support, and everyday needs.
The extra income can help with:
- Hiring a carer or home help
- Buying mobility aids (wheelchairs, stairlifts, home modifications)
- Covering transport costs to medical appointments
Even if you don’t currently receive formal care, you can still qualify based on your care needs.
The £108 weekly Attendance Allowance provides essential financial support for pensioners struggling with health conditions. If you or a loved one needs extra help, apply today to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
