What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a UK benefit designed to support people who are over the State Pension age and need help with personal care due to a long-term illness or disability. This benefit is available to those who have difficulty with everyday activities such as washing, dressing, or eating, or who need supervision to keep them safe.
Unlike some other benefits, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. This means your income and savings do not affect whether you can claim it. You also do not need to have paid National Insurance contributions to qualify.
The main requirement is that you are over the State Pension age (currently 66 for both men and women, following recent changes), and need help with personal care or supervision because of a physical or mental disability.
Attendance Allowance is part of the wider UK benefits overview system, which provides financial support to people facing additional challenges due to age, illness, or disability. The purpose of Attendance Allowance is to help cover the extra costs of daily living that arise from needing care, allowing recipients to maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.
The benefit is paid at two different rates, depending on the level of help you need – either during the day, at night, or both. You do not have to spend the money specifically on care; you can use it in any way that helps you manage your condition and live more comfortably.
For more information about who can claim, how to apply, and what support is available, you can visit the Attendance Allowance page on nidirect, which provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the benefit, including eligibility criteria and application details.
Who Can Claim Attendance Allowance?
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must meet certain eligibility criteria set by the UK government. Here’s what you need to know:
Age Requirement
Attendance Allowance is specifically for people who have reached State Pension age. If you are under State Pension age and need help due to a disability or health condition, you may need to explore other benefits.
Need for Help with Personal Care
You can claim Attendance Allowance if you need help with personal care because of a physical or mental disability or illness. This help must be needed for at least six months (unless you’re terminally ill, in which case you can claim sooner). You don’t need to have a formal diagnosis, but you must show that your condition means you require assistance.
Personal care activities include:
Washing, bathing, or showering
Getting dressed or undressed
Eating and drinking
Using the toilet
Taking medication or managing treatments
Moving around indoors
You may also qualify if you need someone to keep an eye on you to prevent harm, even if you don’t currently have anyone providing this support.
No National Insurance Contributions Needed
Unlike some other benefits, you do not need to have paid National Insurance contributions to claim Attendance Allowance. This means your work history does not affect your entitlement.
Proving Your Eligibility
When you apply, you’ll need to provide information about your health condition or disability and how it affects your daily life. This might include:
Details of your illness or disability
Examples of the help you need (even if you don’t currently receive it)
Medical evidence, such as a letter from your GP or consultant, if available
It’s important to be honest and detailed about the challenges you face, as this will help ensure your claim is assessed fairly.
Checking Your Eligibility and Exploring Other Benefits
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for Attendance Allowance or want to see if you could be eligible for additional support, you can check what benefits you can get. This can help you understand your options and make sure you’re not missing out on financial help you’re entitled to.
If you have further questions about eligibility or the application process, it may be helpful to seek advice from a local support organisation or benefits adviser.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
Applying for Attendance Allowance involves several steps, but understanding the process can help you make a successful claim. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through each stage:
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
Get the Application Form
You can get an Attendance Allowance claim form (form AA1) in several ways:By phone: Call the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122 to request a form. If you apply by phone, your payments can be backdated to the date of your call, as long as you return the completed form within six weeks.
Online: Download and print the form from the government website.
By post: If you prefer, you can write to the Attendance Allowance Unit to request a form by post.
Gather the Information You’ll Need
Before filling in the form, collect the following details:
Your National Insurance number.
Your GP’s contact details and any other healthcare professionals who support you.
Details of your illnesses or disabilities, including how they affect your daily life.
Information about the help you need with personal care (like washing, dressing, or eating) and supervision for your safety.
A list of any medications or treatments you take.
Complete the Application Form
The form asks for detailed information about your care needs. Be as honest and thorough as possible. Use examples to show how your condition affects your daily life. For instance, explain if you need help getting in and out of bed, or if you need someone to remind you to take medication.
For practical advice on what to include and how to clearly describe your needs, see Age UK’s guidance on the application process.
Tips for Filling Out the Form
Take your time: Don’t rush. It can help to fill in a draft first.
Give real-life examples: Describe the help you need on both good and bad days.
Don’t underestimate your needs: Even if you manage most tasks, mention if it takes you longer or if you need encouragement.
Ask for help: A friend, family member, or a local advice service can help you complete the form.
Include supporting evidence: Attach any medical letters or reports that support your claim.
Send the Application
Once completed, post your form to the address provided on the form. Keep a copy for your records.
After You Apply
Assessment:
Most decisions are made using the information on your form, but sometimes the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) may contact you or your doctor for more details. You usually won’t need a face-to-face assessment.Decision Timeframe:
It typically takes about 8 to 12 weeks to get a decision. If your claim is successful, your payments can be backdated to the date you first contacted the DWP for the form.If Your Claim is Refused:
If you disagree with the decision, you have the right to challenge it. First, you can ask the DWP to look at the decision again (called a ‘mandatory reconsideration’). If you’re still unhappy after this, you can appeal to an independent tribunal.
Applying for Attendance Allowance can feel daunting, but taking it step by step and providing clear, detailed information about your needs will give you the best chance of a successful claim.
Attendance Allowance Payment Rates
Attendance Allowance Payment Rates
Attendance Allowance is paid at two different rates, depending on the level of care you need due to illness or disability. The aim is to help people over State Pension age who require extra support with personal care or supervision.
What Are the Current Rates?
There are two weekly rates for Attendance Allowance:
Lower rate: For people who need help or supervision either during the day or at night.
Higher rate: For those who need help or supervision both during the day and at night, or who are terminally ill.
The exact amounts can change, so it’s important to check the most up-to-date figures. For the latest details on how much you could receive, visit payment rates.
What Qualifies for Each Rate?
Lower rate: You may qualify if you need frequent help with personal care tasks (like washing, dressing, or eating) or need someone to keep an eye on you to keep you safe, either during the day or at night.
Higher rate: This is for people who need care or supervision both day and night, or if you are terminally ill (with a life expectancy of six months or less).
How Are Payments Made?
Attendance Allowance is usually paid every four weeks directly into your bank, building society, or credit union account. It is tax-free and not means-tested, meaning your savings or income do not affect how much you get.
How Attendance Allowance Affects Other Benefits
Getting Attendance Allowance does not reduce your State Pension or other income. In fact, it can sometimes increase your entitlement to other benefits. For example, you may get extra help with Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction. However, Attendance Allowance cannot be claimed at the same time as Universal Credit.
It’s a good idea to review how Attendance Allowance could impact your overall financial situation, especially if you receive other benefits or support.
For more information on the current rates and what level of care qualifies, check the How much Attendance Allowance you can get – Citizens Advice guide. This resource offers up-to-date figures and practical examples to help you understand what you might be entitled to.
Other Benefits Related to Attendance Allowance
If you receive Attendance Allowance, you may be entitled to other benefits or forms of support. Understanding what else you can claim can help you maximise your income and get the help you need.
Carer’s Allowance
If someone regularly cares for you because you receive Attendance Allowance, they might be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. This benefit is designed for people who spend at least 35 hours a week looking after someone with substantial care needs. There are eligibility criteria, including income and earnings limits, so it’s important to check the details before applying.
For a full explanation of rates, eligibility, and how to apply, you can also visit Age UK’s Carer’s Allowance 2024: Rates, Eligibility & How to Apply | Age UK. This resource is especially useful for carers who want to understand how their own finances might be affected.
Disability Benefits
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested and does not reduce other benefits. In fact, it can sometimes increase your entitlement to other support. If you have additional needs or a long-term health condition, you may qualify for further Disability Benefits. These can provide extra financial help with daily living or mobility needs. It’s worth exploring what’s available, as some benefits are designed to complement Attendance Allowance.
Bereavement Benefits
If you have recently lost a partner or close family member, you may be able to claim Bereavement Benefits. These benefits can provide financial support during a difficult time, helping with funeral costs or providing ongoing payments. Eligibility depends on your relationship to the deceased and their National Insurance contributions.
Help with Housing Costs
Claiming Attendance Allowance can sometimes increase your entitlement to help with rent, Council Tax, or other housing expenses. Schemes such as Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction may be available, especially if you have a low income. To learn more about what you could claim, visit Help with Housing.
Help with Transport Costs
If you have mobility difficulties or need help getting to medical appointments, there may be schemes to help with travel expenses. Some local councils offer free or discounted travel passes, and you might qualify for the Blue Badge scheme. For more information on available support, see Help with Transport Costs.
Employment-Related Support
If you or your carer are still working or looking for work, there are benefits and schemes that may help. These can include support for people with disabilities in the workplace, or financial help if your ability to work is affected. Find out more about your options on our Employment Benefits page.
Support for Families with Children
While Attendance Allowance is for people over State Pension age, some households may also have children. If you are responsible for children or grandchildren, you might be entitled to additional support. Explore available options on our Help if You Have Children page.
Understanding how Attendance Allowance fits in with other benefits can be complex, but getting the right advice can make a real difference. Always check eligibility criteria carefully and consider seeking personalised advice if you’re unsure about what you can claim.
Making Disability Adjustments at Home
If you receive Attendance Allowance, you may find that making changes to your home can help you manage daily tasks more safely and independently. Disability adjustments – sometimes called adaptations – are modifications designed to make living spaces easier to use if you have an illness or disability.
Why Make Disability Adjustments?
As needs change, certain areas of your home might become difficult to navigate. Adjustments can help you move around more freely, reduce the risk of falls, and maintain your independence. For example, if you struggle with stairs, installing a stairlift or a handrail can make a significant difference. If bathing is difficult, a walk-in shower or a bath seat could help.
Requesting Adjustments and Adaptations
You have the right to ask for reasonable adjustments to your home if you have a disability. Local councils have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to consider requests for adaptations. This applies whether you own your home or rent, although the process may differ depending on your housing situation.
To get started, contact your local council’s adult social care department and ask for a needs assessment. This assessment is free and helps identify what support or adaptations you might benefit from. The council may recommend minor adaptations, such as grab rails or ramps, which are often provided free of charge up to a certain value. For larger adaptations, like widening doorways or installing a wet room, you might be eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant, which can help cover the costs.
For a detailed guide on how to request and arrange these changes, see our page on Disability Adjustments.
Common Home Adjustments
Some examples of home adjustments that can support daily living include:
Installing grab rails in the bathroom or by the front door
Fitting ramps to help with steps or thresholds
Lowering kitchen worktops for wheelchair access
Widening doorways to accommodate mobility aids
Adding stairlifts or bannisters for easier access between floors
Improving lighting to reduce the risk of trips and falls
How Adjustments Help
These changes can make everyday tasks – like washing, cooking, or moving from room to room – safer and less tiring. They also help prevent accidents and support you in staying in your own home for longer.
Who Can Help?
Your local council is usually the main point of contact for arranging home adaptations. Occupational therapists, often working with the council, can assess your needs and recommend suitable adjustments. If you live in rented accommodation, you may need your landlord’s permission for certain changes, but the law protects your right to reasonable adjustments.
If you are unsure where to begin or want to learn more about your rights and the process, visit our Disability Adjustments page for more information.
