Starting in May 2025, the UK government will raise Attendance Allowance payments, offering extra financial relief to older adults living with long-term health conditions.
Run by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), this increase is aimed at easing the costs of personal care for pensioners who need daily help but don’t qualify for mobility support.
If you or someone close to you is over State Pension age and facing health challenges, here’s what you need to know about the changes and how to access this benefit.
Purpose
Attendance Allowance helps people over State Pension age who need support with personal care due to physical or mental health issues. That might include help with eating, washing, dressing, or needing someone nearby for safety or supervision.
The allowance is tax-free and not based on your income or savings. What matters is how much care you need day to day, not your financial situation.
Increases
From May 2025, Attendance Allowance rates are going up as part of a broader benefits update. Here’s how the new payments break down:
- Lower rate: £73.90 per week — for those needing help either during the day or at night
- Higher rate: £110.40 per week — for those who need support both day and night, or who are terminally ill
That higher rate adds up to roughly £441 a month—support that can make a real difference when it comes to covering essentials like heating, food, or home help.
Attendance Allowance
| Care Need | Weekly Rate (£) | Monthly Equivalent (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Day or night care | 73.90 | ~295.60 |
| Day and night care / terminal illness | 110.40 | ~441.60 |
Eligibility
This benefit doesn’t look at how much money you earn or whether you have a carer. What counts is:
- You’re over State Pension age
- You’ve had a health condition or disability for at least 6 months
- You need help with personal care or supervision
- You’re not already receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
For those with a terminal illness, the six-month waiting period is waived so you can get quicker access to support.
Application
Applying is straightforward but requires careful detail. Here’s how to go about it:
- Get the form: Download it from GOV.UK or call to request a paper version
- Fill it in completely: Be honest and specific about how your condition affects you
- Send it off: Post it to the address listed in the instructions
While a doctor’s note isn’t needed, sending any supporting evidence can be useful. If you need help, ask a family member, carer, or local advice centre to assist with the form.
Extras
Once approved, Attendance Allowance may unlock additional financial help, such as:
- Higher Pension Credit
- Lower Council Tax
- Extra support through Housing Benefit
Be sure to notify the DWP and your local council—this can help trigger benefits you may not realise you’re eligible for.
Scotland
In Scotland, Attendance Allowance is gradually being replaced by the new Pension Age Disability Payment. This change began in 2024 and continues into 2025.
If you’re already receiving Attendance Allowance, you don’t need to do anything—your benefit will move over to the new system automatically. The aim is to maintain the same level of support with local management.
Wellbeing
This update isn’t just a small policy tweak—it’s meaningful support for older adults facing daily challenges. Living with chronic health conditions often comes with extra costs and stress. Increasing Attendance Allowance helps cover those everyday needs without adding financial strain.
Because the benefit isn’t linked to income, it’s widely accessible. Whether you live alone or have support at home, if you need help with personal care, this allowance is meant for you.
FAQs
What is the new weekly rate?
£73.90 for lower rate, £110.40 for higher rate.
Who can apply for Attendance Allowance?
Anyone over State Pension age with care needs.
Is income considered for eligibility?
No, it is non-means-tested and tax-free.
Do I need a carer to claim?
No, you can claim even without a carer.
What if I live in Scotland?
You’ll be moved to Pension Age Disability Payment.
