Check Eligibility Conditions & How to Apply

In this article, we will take a closer look at the key details about Attendance Allowance, including how much it provides, who is eligible, and how to apply.

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit available to people aged 65 or over who need help with personal care or supervision due to illness, disability, or long-term conditions. It is not means-tested, meaning your income or savings don’t affect your eligibility. The benefit comes in two rates:

• Lower rate: £73.90 per week
• Higher rate: £110.40 per week

Paid every four weeks, this adds up to either £295.60 or £441.60 each pay period, or around £5,740.80 for the financial year 2025/26. The amount received depends on the level of help required for daily living tasks. However, it’s important to note that there is no mobility component included in the Attendance Allowance.

Conditions Covered by Attendance Allowance

The benefit is available to individuals with a wide range of medical conditions. According to the DWP, the most common condition among claimants is arthritis, which affects 483,376 people across Great Britain. In total, 1.7 million people receive Attendance Allowance, with the following medical conditions accounting for 75% of these claims:

• Arthritis: 483,376 claimants
• Dementia: 173,179 claimants
• Heart Disease: 124,528 claimants
• Respiratory Conditions: 104,098 claimants
• Diseases of the Muscles, Bones or Joints: 86,319 claimants
• Cerebrovascular Disease: 74,716 claimants
• Back Pain: 74,804 claimants
• Visual Disorders and Diseases: 50,993 claimants
• Parkinson’s Disease: 44,440 claimants
• Neurological Conditions: 35,597 claimants

While this list provides an overview of the most common conditions, it is not a comprehensive guide for claiming Attendance Allowance. Instead, it highlights the variety of conditions for which the benefit can be received.

Who is Eligible for Attendance Allowance?

You may be eligible for Attendance Allowance if:

• You are 65 or older.
• You have a disability or illness that requires you to need help with personal care tasks, or you require supervision during the day or night.

Some examples of tasks that may qualify for assistance include:

• Getting dressed
• Eating and drinking
• Getting in and out of bed
• Bathing or showering
• Using the toilet

Even if you’re not currently receiving help, you should consider applying if you find these tasks difficult, take a long time, cause you pain, or need support, such as using a chair to lean on. It’s also worth noting that Attendance Allowance isn’t limited to just physical health problems; it can cover mental health issues, learning difficulties, and sensory conditions like being deaf or visually impaired.

How to Apply for Attendance Allowance

To apply for Attendance Allowance, you need to fill out a claim form, which can seem long and detailed. However, help is available from organizations like Citizens Advice, so you don’t have to navigate the process alone.

You can also access detailed guides on how to complete the form, either online or through postal services. For more information and to get your application form, visit the GOV.UK website.

Attendance Allowance is a valuable benefit that helps elderly individuals who need assistance with daily tasks due to illness or disability. With over 1.7 million claimants, it provides crucial support for those who want to remain independent and live in their own homes for longer.

Whether it’s arthritis, dementia, or another condition, if you need help with personal care or supervision, applying for Attendance Allowance can provide the financial support you need. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance if you’re unsure about the application process—there are resources available to guide you through it.

FAQ