What is Attendance Allowance
(Updated 03/04/2023)
You need to have reached State Pension age to claim Attendance Allowance - check your State Pension age on GOV.UK. You also need to have a disability or illness that makes it hard for you to look after yourself.
Lots of people are entitled to Attendance Allowance but don't know enough about it to claim.
You could get £61.85 or £92.40 a week - the amount you get will depend on how much help you need. You can spend the money however you like - it could help you stay independent in your own home for longer.
Attendance Allowance isn't means tested so it doesn't matter what other money you get. It doesn't matter how much you have in savings either - there's no limit.
It won't affect your state pension and you can claim it if you're still working and earning money.
You'll need to complete a long claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem daunting at first but help is available from your nearest Citizens Advice so don't let the form put you off applying.
If you'd prefer to do it yourself you can follow our advice on how to fill in your claim form.
Attendance Allowance and your other benefits
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit. You'll be exempt from the Benefit Cap so you won't have money taken away from any other benefits.
Claiming Attendance Allowance might also mean you're entitled to extra help - for example, you might qualify for a council tax reduction (this depends on your personal circumstances).
You won't be able to get Attendance Allowance if you already get Personal Independent Payment (PIP) or if you get Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to pay for your care (the ‘care component’ of DLA).
If you apply for Attendance Allowance while getting DLA, the DWP will usually reassess your DLA award instead. If you were born on or after 9 April 1948, you’ll be moved from DLA to PIP, and you might get less money. Get help from your local Citizens Advice if you’re not sure about what you can claim.
