The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides Attendance Allowance to older people who need support with daily living due to illness, disability, or mental health conditions. This tax-free benefit is not means-tested, meaning your savings or income will not affect eligibility.
Payments are designed to give recipients financial freedom and independence while managing extra costs caused by health conditions.
Depending on your care needs, you could receive either £73.90 or £110.40 per week, paid every four weeks. This totals £295.60 or £441.60, providing a meaningful boost to help with bills, transport, or household support.
Attendance Allowance Rates
There are two levels of Attendance Allowance, based on how much care you need:
- Lower Rate: £73.90 weekly (if you need help during the day or the night).
- Higher Rate: £110.40 weekly (if you need help both during the day and night, or if you are terminally ill).
This benefit can be spent however you choose—it does not need to go directly to a carer.
Payment Breakdown
| Rate Type | Weekly Amount | 4-Weekly Payment | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 | People needing help with personal care during the day OR at night |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 | People needing help day AND night, or those diagnosed as terminally ill |
Who Can Apply?
You may be eligible if you are over State Pension age and:
- Need help with personal care (e.g., dressing, eating, bathing, using the toilet).
- Require supervision to stay safe at home.
- Live with a long-term physical disability, mental health condition, or sensory impairment such as sight or hearing loss.
You do not need someone actively caring for you to qualify—your eligibility is based on your care needs, not whether someone is currently assisting you.
Seven Key Details to Provide in Your Application
When completing the Attendance Allowance form, the seven most important things to include are:
- Daily tasks you find difficult – such as getting out of bed, preparing meals, or dressing.
- How long tasks take you – for example, if dressing takes you 30 minutes due to pain or mobility issues.
- Good and bad days – explain how your condition fluctuates and affects your routine differently.
- Things you avoid doing – describe tasks you no longer attempt because of discomfort or risk.
- Consequences of missing care – for instance, if not having support increases the risk of falls or accidents.
- Supporting evidence – such as notes from your GP, hospital consultant, or carer.
- Identification and National Insurance details – required to process your application.
Effect on Other Benefits
Attendance Allowance can increase entitlement to other support, including:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
It does not reduce your State Pension and is fully exempt from the Benefit Cap.
Why Attendance Allowance Matters
Currently, over 1.7 million people are receiving Attendance Allowance across Great Britain. For many, it is the difference between struggling and being able to live independently.
With rising living costs, the £441.60 payment every four weeks helps cover essential expenses and gives peace of mind.
The £441 Attendance Allowance is more than just a payment—it is vital support for older people living with health challenges.
By ensuring you provide the seven key details when applying, you strengthen your chances of a successful claim and can continue to live with dignity, independence, and financial security.
FAQs
Does Attendance Allowance depend on income or savings?
No, it is not means-tested—your income or savings do not affect eligibility.
Can I use Attendance Allowance however I want?
Yes, the payment is flexible. You can spend it on anything that helps you manage daily life, from bills to extra care.
Do I need to have a carer to apply?
No, you only need to demonstrate that you require help or supervision—not that someone is already providing it.