DWP £108 per Week for State Pensioners: The UK government provides financial help through Attendance Allowance for older people with illnesses or disabilities. As of August 2024, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) confirmed that nearly 1.7 million elderly people are receiving this benefit. It’s a tax-free, non-means-tested payment, meaning your savings or income do not affect your eligibility.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about Attendance Allowance, including new rates, who can apply, and the top health conditions it supports.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care because of a physical or mental health condition. This help can include support during the day or at night. Importantly, this benefit does not include a mobility component, so it does not cover travel or movement support.
You don’t need to have a carer or someone looking after you full-time to claim this benefit. If you struggle with everyday tasks or need supervision for your safety, you might qualify.
Attendance Allowance Payment Rates 2024–2025
Currently, the benefit is paid every four weeks, at two different weekly rates depending on the level of care you need:
Until March 2025:
Lower rate – £72.65/week = £290.60 per 4 weeks
Higher rate – £108.55/week = £434.20 per 4 weeks
From April 2025 (new rates):
Lower rate – £73.90/week
Higher rate – £110.40/week
That means in the 2024-25 financial year, someone on the higher rate could receive up to £5,644.60. You can spend this money however you wish — whether on bills, transport, help at home, or anything that supports your independence.
Who Can Claim Attendance Allowance?
You can apply for Attendance Allowance if:
You are over the State Pension age
You have a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition
You need help with personal care tasks, like bathing, eating, using the toilet, or staying safe
You don’t already receive PIP or DLA for care needs
Even if no one is currently helping you, but you feel you need assistance or supervision, you may still be eligible.
It’s also useful for those with mental health problems, sensory issues (like vision or hearing loss), or learning difficulties.
Top 10 Conditions Supported by Attendance Allowance
Here are the main conditions and the number of claimants across Great Britain:
- Neurological Conditions: 35,597
- Arthritis: 483,376
- Dementia: 173,179
- Heart Disease: 124,528
- Respiratory Conditions: 104,098
- Disease Of The Muscles, Bones or Joints: 86,319
- Cerebrovascular Disease: 74,716
- Back Pain: 74,804
- Visual Disorders and Diseases: 50,993
- Parkinson’s: 44,440
FAQ
Can You Claim If You Have Savings or Other Income?
Yes, you can. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your savings, income, or other benefits do not affect your claim. It’s also not taxed, and it won’t count towards the Benefit Cap.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
You need to fill out a detailed claim form, which may seem long but help is available. You can get guidance from Citizens Advice or follow the guide on the GOV.UK website.
You can apply by post or over the phone. Be sure to provide all necessary details, including how your condition affects your daily life, even if you are managing on your own currently.
What If You’re Approaching State Pension Age?
If you are below State Pension age and need similar support, Personal Independence Payment (PIP) might be more suitable. It often pays more and includes a mobility component, which Attendance Allowance does not cover.
Once you cross State Pension age, if you’re already on PIP or DLA, you can continue with that. But if your award ends and you’re no longer eligible, you can then switch to Attendance Allowance.
Who Cannot Claim Attendance Allowance?
You cannot claim if:
You are already getting PIP or DLA to cover your care needs.
However, if your DLA or PIP ends and you still need help, you can apply for Attendance Allowance.
