Attendance Allowance

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

The amount you get is based on the help you need, not any help you do or don't actually get. There are two different amounts, depending on how much help you need. Any money you do receive doesn't need to be spent on your care.

The money you receive isn't 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 2022 to April 2023.

Rate Amount per week

Lower rate £61.85 You need help during the day or at night

Higher rate £92.40 You need help during the day and at night, or you're terminally ill

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 illness, including sight or hearing impairments, or mental health issues 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. If you’re terminally ill you can make a claim straight away.