The UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that Attendance Allowance—a benefit for older adults requiring help due to illness or disability—will reach up to £434 per month in 2025.
With over 1.6 million recipients and no impact on means-tested benefits, this non-taxable support plays a vital role for pensioners. Here’s a detailed guide to eligibility, payment updates, and the application process.
Updated Attendance Allowance Rates for 2025–26
| Rate | Weekly Amount (2024–25) | Weekly Amount (2025–26) | Monthly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £72.65 | £73.90 | ~£320 |
| Higher Rate | £108.55 | £110.40 | ~£478 |
The highest rate, commonly referred to as the £434 monthly payment, equates to £110.40 weekly over four weeks.
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you:
Are of State Pension age (currently 66; rising to 67 by 2028)
Have a disability or health condition affecting daily living
Require frequent personal care or supervision for at least six months, or are terminally ill (immediate eligibility)
Are resident in Great Britain, meeting habitual residence requirements
Do not already receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), or Adult Disability Payment (Northern Ireland)
Note: In Scotland, Attendance Allowance is being replaced with the Pension Age Disability Payment starting April 2025. Those already receiving it will be transferred automatically.
What You Need in Your Application
You’ll need:
- National Insurance number and contact details
- Detailed descriptions of daily care needs (dressing, eating, managing medication) and how they affect you
- Letters, medical records, or a diary documenting your condition over time (see table below for specifics)
How to Claim: Step-by-Step
- Obtain form AA1:
- Call the DWP helpline (0800 731 0122)
- Download it from GOV.UK
- Decide application method:
- By post: Forms returned within 6 weeks are backdated to the date of your call
- Online: Claim takes effect from submission date
- In Northern Ireland, use the Disability & Carers Service helpline
- Submit the form via Freepost (no stamp needed).
- Wait for confirmation: Expect an acknowledgment within 3 weeks.
- Receive decision: DWP usually responds within 30 working days (faster, ~2 weeks, if terminally ill).
- Begin payments: Payment starts from application date. Decision letter will specify the date.
Who Qualifies for Which Rate?
- Lower rate (£73.90/week): Frequent care needed during day or night
- Higher rate (£110.40/week): Care needed both day and night, or terminal illness
- Both rates disregard income and savings; only your care needs matter
What Happens in Scotland?
From April 2025, Scotland implements the Pension Age Disability Payment, replacing Attendance Allowance. Amounts are the same (£73.90 or £110.40 per week), and existing claimants will be moved automatically.
Why Attendance Allowance Matters
- It’s a tax-free supplement to pension income, worth up to ~£5,750 annually.
- Can help fund care support, household adaptations, or transportation needs.
- Qualifying may also unlock Carer’s Allowance, Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction for both the beneficiary and their carer.
Tips for a Strong Claim
- Keep a daily diary of care needs—times, tasks, difficulties.
- Use supporting evidence: GP letters, hospital discharge notes, care worker reports.
- Be precise when describing needs on the form—detail makes the strongest case.
- Apply before 6 weeks end from your cal—this ensures full backdating.
FAQs
1. How much is Attendance Allowance in 2025?
- Lower rate: £73.90/week (~£320/month)
- Higher rate: £110.40/week (~£478/month)
2. Who can claim Attendance Allowance?
Anyone over State Pension age needing daily care or supervision for at least six months (or terminally ill), and resident in Great Britain. Specific care-home or immigration exceptions apply.
3. How do I apply if I can’t fill the form?
A trusted person (appointee or attorney) can apply on your behalf, as long as they have the legal right.
4. Can I get Attendance Allowance while in a care home?
Only if you’re self-funding your care. Those funded by local authorities are not eligible.
5. What if my condition changes after claiming?
Report any changes immediately—your eligibility or rate may be reviewed. You also have the right to appeal decisions.
Conclusion
Attendance Allowance remains an essential, non-means-tested benefit for older adults in need of daily support. With rates rising to £434 per month in 2025, now is an ideal time for eligible individuals to apply. You may use the funds as you wish, and your claim might unlock additional financial support.
Make sure to prepare a detailed application and submit it promptly to receive all you’re entitled to.