The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging individuals with specific health conditions to review their eligibility for a valuable benefit—Attendance Allowance, which can provide £441 every four weeks.
This financial assistance is designed for those with severe physical or mental health conditions requiring regular care or supervision.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit for people with disabilities severe enough to require personal care. It’s available to individuals who have reached state pension age and have a long-term health condition or disability.
There are two rates:
- Lower rate: For those needing help during the day or night.
- Higher rate: For those who need care throughout both day and night, or are terminally ill.
Note: Attendance Allowance does not cover mobility needs, nor is it affected by your income or savings. However, receiving it may increase entitlement to other benefits, such as Pension Credit or Housing Benefit.
Updated Payment Rates for 2025
From April 2025, Attendance Allowance payments were increased by 1.7%, in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The updated weekly rates are:
| Rate Type | Weekly Amount | Monthly Total (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 |
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 |
These payments are made every four weeks, supporting the growing care needs of the elderly and disabled.
Qualifying Health Conditions (Full List)
The DWP has listed 57 medical conditions that could potentially qualify you for Attendance Allowance. These include, but are not limited to:
- Arthritis, Spondylosis, Back pain, Trauma to limbs
- Heart disease, Respiratory diseases, Asthma, Cystic fibrosis
- Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s, Multiple sclerosis, and Motor neurone disease
- Mental health disorders: Psychosis, Dementia, Personality Disorder
- Visual/hearing impairments, Double amputees, Deaf/blind
- Chronic conditions: Diabetes, Epilepsy, Skin disease, Cancer
- Terminal illnesses and other serious infectious diseases including Covid-19, Tuberculosis, and Malaria
This broad list ensures support is accessible to a wide range of individuals with ongoing care requirements.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
Applying is simple and can be done via post:
- Request the Attendance Allowance claim form.
- Instructions are included to guide you through filling it out.
- Return the form to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance (no postcode or stamp required).
For alternate formats (Braille, large print, or audio), contact the Attendance Allowance helpline:
- 0800 731 0122
- 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday
For those dealing with long-term or serious health conditions, Attendance Allowance can provide essential financial relief—up to £441 every four weeks.
With 57 recognized conditions and no requirement to disclose income or savings, it’s a crucial support mechanism for the elderly and disabled. If you or a loved one meet the criteria, now is the time to apply and access this DWP benefit.
FAQs
Can I receive Attendance Allowance if I already claim other benefits?
Yes, Attendance Allowance is separate and does not affect other benefits. In fact, it may increase what you already receive.
Do I need a diagnosis to apply?
Yes, a documented medical condition is required, but you do not need to name the specific diagnosis as long as you explain the care needs clearly.
Is Attendance Allowance available to those under state pension age?
No. If you are under state pension age, you may need to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead.