The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a new online method for pensioners of State Pension age to apply for Attendance Allowance—a vital benefit that helps with daily living needs.
With nearly 1.7 million elderly claimants, including 150,000 in Scotland, Attendance Allowance remains a key lifeline.
This update brings easier access for those applying, but applicants should be aware of important details such as the limitations of the service, the phased rollout in Scotland, and the payment structure.
Attendance Allowance & Scotland’s Transition
- Attendance Allowance currently supports individuals with disabilities or long-term conditions, supplying additional funds ranging from £73.90 to £110.40 per week.
- Those in Scotland are being moved to a new program called Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP).
- PADP offers the same payment rates—roughly £295.60 (lower rate) or £441.60 (higher rate) every four weeks.
- The rollout began in October 2024, expanded in March 2025, and will be nationwide by April 22, 2025. Existing Scottish recipients will be automatically transferred, with no action required.
Payment structure and Supported Conditions
Attendance Allowance and PADP provide financial help for pensioners who need personal support or supervision, either during the day, at night, or both. These payments are designed to help retirees continue living independently.
Here’s how the support breaks down:
| Condition Type | Approximate Number of Claimants (GB) |
|---|---|
| Arthritis | 483,376 |
| Dementia | 173,179 |
| Heart Disease | 124,528 |
| Respiratory Conditions | 104,098 |
| Musculoskeletal Conditions | 86,319 |
| Stroke-related Conditions | 74,716 |
| Back Pain | 74,804 |
| Visual Disorders | 50,993 |
| Parkinson’s Disease | 44,440 |
| Neurological Conditions | 35,597 |
Claiming Process: What’s New, What Remains the Same
New Online Service
- The DWP now accepts a limited number of Attendance Allowance applications online each week. This is part of a temporary test phase aimed at improving accessibility.
Access Restrictions
- Important: The online application cannot be completed via a mobile phone or tablet—only desktop or laptop computers are supported for the online process.
By Post – Traditional Route
- You can still apply by post by:
- Downloading and printing a claim form.
- Requesting one via the helpline (0800 731 0122).
- Postal guidance has been updated: Only the Freepost address should be written on the envelope—no stamp or postcode is required.
Weekly & Four-Weekly Payments
Both Attendance Allowance and PADP are dispensed every four weeks in arrears, with rates depending on care needs:
- Lower Rate: £73.90 per week = £295.60 every four weeks
- Higher Rate: £110.40 per week = £441.60 every four weeks
These payments are non-means-tested, meaning income and savings do not affect eligibility, and they do not impact State Pension. They can also increase entitlement to benefits like Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction.
The DWP’s new online application phase for Attendance Allowance marks a significant step toward more accessible support for pensioners. With millions reliant on these payments—particularly for conditions like arthritis, dementia, and heart disease—the ease of applying from home will be welcomed, especially for those using desktops.
Scottish residents will transition seamlessly to PADP, ensuring continued support without fuss. However, for those not yet online-ready, the traditional postal method remains fully operational and straightforward.
Whether applying online or through the post, pensioners now have more flexible ways to access this essential benefit and maintain independence.
FAQs
How do I apply using the new online system?
You can apply online from a desktop or laptop. The DWP only accepts a limited number of claims each week through this route while they test accessibility improvements.
What’s happening with benefit claims in Scotland?
If you’re already receiving Attendance Allowance in Scotland, your case will automatically transfer to Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP)—no action needed. Payments remain the same rates and will continue with no disruption.
Will claiming Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
No—Attendance Allowance (or PADP) does not affect your State Pension, is non-means-tested, and is tax-free. However, receiving it may increase your eligibility for Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.