The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has reported that as of the end of August 2024, nearly 1.7 million elderly individuals across the UK were receiving Attendance Allowance, with approximately 150,000 of them residing in Scotland.
This non-means-tested benefit is intended to help older individuals manage extra daily living costs arising from physical or mental health conditions. Payments are made at two different rates depending on the level of care needed.
How Much Is Attendance Allowance Worth?
Attendance Allowance is paid weekly but typically disbursed every four weeks, totaling:
| Rate | Weekly Payment | Four-Week Total |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 |
- Lower rate is provided if you need frequent help or supervision during the day, or supervision at night.
- Higher rate is granted if you need help both day and night, or if a medical professional has confirmed you’re near the end of life.
Who Is Eligible for Attendance Allowance?
You may qualify for Attendance Allowance if you’re of State Pension age and live with a physical or mental disability that makes it difficult to care for yourself.
You can claim even if
- No one is currently caring for you.
- You have savings or other income (the benefit is not means-tested).
- You’re still working or claiming State Pension.
Types of Help That Qualify
- Dressing, bathing, eating, and toileting.
- Supervision to prevent injury or manage conditions.
- Using aids like chairs to lean on due to discomfort or pain.
Most Common Conditions and Long-Term Awards
Out of the total recipients, 36% (563,746) have been granted Attendance Allowance for five years or more.
The most prevalent condition is arthritis, affecting 483,376 claimants, including 44,455 in Scotland. A significant 47% of arthritis-related claims receive awards of five years or longer.
Here’s a snapshot of selected conditions and the percentage receiving long-term awards:
| Health Condition | 5+ Year Award Rate |
|---|---|
| Arthritis | 47% |
| Multiple Sclerosis | 52% |
| Traumatic Paraplegia | 54% |
| Heart Disease | 50% |
| Neurological Diseases | 50% |
| Learning Difficulties | 48% |
| Personality Disorder | 48% |
| Dementia | 20% |
| Coronavirus (Covid-19) | 1% |
| Frailty | 100% |
Note: Lifelong or degenerative conditions often qualify for longer awards, whereas temporary or potentially improving conditions may be granted shorter periods.
What Can the Benefit Be Used For?
The Attendance Allowance payment offers flexibility. Recipients can spend it in any way that helps them maintain independence, such as:
- Taxis or transportation
- Utility bills
- Hiring a cleaner or gardener
- Daily living aids
Impact on Other Benefits
Receiving Attendance Allowance may lead to increased entitlements in:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
Importantly, it will not affect:
- Your State Pension
- Your eligibility for other benefits
- Your Benefit Cap (Attendance Allowance is exempt)
Claiming Process and Alternatives
To apply, you’ll need to fill out a detailed application form. Assistance is available through organizations like Citizens Advice and Independent Age.
Alternative if Below State Pension Age:
If you are approaching State Pension age, consider applying for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), as it may offer higher benefits.
Who Cannot Claim Attendance Allowance?
- If you live in Scotland, you must apply for the Pension Age Disability Payment, Scotland’s devolved equivalent.
- Those already receiving PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for care needs cannot claim Attendance Allowance at the same time.
- If your DLA or PIP claim ends, you may then apply for Attendance Allowance if eligible.
The DWP’s Attendance Allowance provides essential financial support to older individuals living with long-term health conditions, enabling them to live independently with dignity.
With payments of up to £441.60 every four weeks, this benefit not only eases financial burdens but also enhances the quality of life.
Claimants dealing with conditions like arthritis, MS, or heart disease may even receive long-term support lasting five years or more. If you’re eligible, it’s worth exploring how this benefit could support your daily living needs.
FAQs
Yes. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your income and savings do not affect your eligibility.
It may actually increase your other benefits like Pension Credit or Housing Benefit, and will not reduce your State Pension.
No. You cannot receive both. If you’re on DLA, DWP will reassess your existing claim instead of awarding Attendance Allowance.
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