Pensioners aged above State Pension Age who live with one of 56 qualifying conditions can claim the DWP Attendance Allowance, providing tax-free income of up to £5,740 annually.
This crucial benefit helps cover care and supervision needs, and it’s not means-tested—making it accessible regardless of savings or income.
What’s the Attendance Allowance Worth?
The Attendance Allowance is paid in two tax-free weekly rates, based on the level of support required. Claimants receive the payment every 4 weeks, totaling 13 payments per year.
| Rate | Weekly Amount | Monthly (approx.) | Annual Total (13 weeks) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 | £3,842.80 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 | £5,740.80 |
These figures reflect 2025/26 rates and represent significant annual support for eligible pensioners.
Who Can Claim?
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must:
- Be at or above State Pension Age
- Have one of the 56 specified conditions (see list below)
- Require help caring for yourself or need supervision for safety
- Have needed that help for at least six months, unless terminally ill
The wide-ranging conditions include:
- Physical and sensory conditions: arthritis, back pain, visual/hearing disorders, heart and respiratory conditions, asthma, cystic fibrosis
- Neurological and chronic illnesses: epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, motor neurone disease, chronic pain
- Immunological, metabolic, and blood diseases: diabetes, haematological disorders, inflammatory bowel disease
- Cognitive, psychiatric & other conditions: dementia, psychosis, personality disorders, learning difficulties, substance abuse, frailty
- Multiple system or traumatic conditions: amputations, paraplegia, total parenteral nutrition, frailty, terminal diseases, including COVID-19
Why It Matters
- Non-means-tested: Your savings or income have no impact on eligibility.
- Tax-free: The allowance is not liable for tax and won’t reduce your other benefits; it may even boost them.
- Flexible use: Funds can be used for any purpose—care, equipment, bills, or support that makes everyday life easier.
- Hidden benefits: Many eligible people miss out—claiming could unlock further relief via Pension Credit, Council Tax reductions, or Carer’s Allowance for others.
For pensioners managing long-term health or care needs, the Attendance Allowance offers up to £5,740 annually, based purely on your level of need, not your income.
If you match the eligibility criteria, it’s essential to claim—this support can ease the burden of care costs and significantly improve quality of life.
FAQs
Who is eligible for Attendance Allowance?
You qualify if you’ve reached State Pension age, have one of the 56 specified conditions, and need help or supervision for at least six months (unless terminally ill).
How much can I receive each year?
If you meet eligibility, you could get £3,842 per year at the lower rate, or up to £5,740 annually at the higher rate.
Can Attendance Allowance affect my other benefits?
No—it’s non-means-tested, tax-free, and can even increase other benefits like Pension Credit, Carer’s Allowance, or Council Tax Reduction.