Millions of older adults in the UK could see their monthly income rise significantly thanks to a combination of State Pension and Attendance Allowance—a Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefit aimed at people with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
With recent updates for the 2025/26 financial year, the total monthly payment could reach as high as £1,362, depending on eligibility and the level of care needed.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit provided to individuals over State Pension age who have a disability, illness, or health condition that requires extra care. It is not affected by your income, savings, or whether you’re employed.
There are two weekly rates:
- Lower rate: £73.90/week
- Higher rate: £110.40/week
Since payments are made every four weeks, this translates to:
- £295.60 per month (lower rate)
- £441.60 per month (higher rate)
You do not have to have a full-time carer to qualify, but your condition must affect your daily living or nighttime care needs.
How It Adds Up to £1,362 Per Month
When Attendance Allowance is combined with the State Pension, total monthly payments could reach:
| Benefit Type | Weekly Amount | 4-Week Payment |
|---|---|---|
| New State Pension | £230.25 | £921.00 |
| Attendance Allowance (High) | £110.40 | £441.60 |
| Total Potential Income | — | £1,362.60 |
Not everyone gets the full State Pension. Payment depends on National Insurance contributions over your working life.
Who Qualifies for Attendance Allowance?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be over State Pension age
- Have a disability or health condition that requires care or supervision
- Have needed help for at least 6 months (except if you’re terminally ill)
Your condition must impact your ability to manage personal care or stay safe, either during the day, at night, or both.
Conditions That Qualify
Here’s a snapshot of the medical conditions that commonly support successful claims:
- Arthritis
- Dementia
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Visual or Hearing Impairments
- Chronic Respiratory or Heart Conditions
- Diabetes
- Neurological disorders (e.g., Multiple Sclerosis)
- Mental health issues, including severe depression or psychosis
The DWP assesses how these conditions affect daily life, not the diagnosis itself.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
You can claim via post using the Attendance Allowance claim form available on the GOV.UK website.
Key tips for your application:
- Be honest and detailed about how your condition affects you.
- Describe difficulties with washing, dressing, eating, and moving around.
- Mention if someone checks on you regularly for safety reasons.
Annual Income from Attendance Allowance
| Rate | Annual Value |
|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £3,847.80 |
| Higher Rate | £5,740.80 |
Combined with the full New State Pension, this totals £11,973–£17,713.80 annually.
If you’re over State Pension age and living with a health condition, Attendance Allowance offers a substantial financial lifeline. When added to the State Pension, eligible individuals could receive up to £1,362 per month, easing the burden of care and daily living costs.
Many still miss out on this benefit due to lack of awareness or fear of complex applications. But with no means test and simple eligibility criteria based on care needs, it’s worth applying if you qualify.
FAQs
Can you get Attendance Allowance and still work or have savings?
Yes. It’s not means-tested, so your income, savings, or job status don’t affect eligibility.
Can Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
Receiving it may increase other benefits, such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.
Is there a mobility component in Attendance Allowance?
No. Unlike Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance doesn’t include mobility support.