The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled new data revealing that around 1.7 million elderly people were claiming Attendance Allowance as of the end of February 2024. It’s important to highlight that while payments may be temporarily halted for those in hospital or care homes, their entitlement remains intact.

The Attendance Allowance, which is either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) per week, translates to either £290.60 or £434.20 every four weeks – a total of roughly £5,644.60 over the 2024/25 fiscal year. The amount received hinges on the level of support needed and the benefit is designed to help individuals of State Pension age with daily living expenses, potentially allowing them to retain independence in their own home for longer.

However, it should be pointed out that there is no mobility component attached to Attendance Allowance. As of February 2024, the number of elderly individuals receiving payments includes those with disabilities, long-term illnesses, and mental or physical health problems.

The list of conditions supported by Attendance Allowance is extensive, but arthritis is the most common disabling condition, providing support for 460,993 people across Great Britain, including 42,115 in Scotland.

The top 10 conditions supported by Attendance Allowance account for 74% of the total number of people receiving payments, according to data from the DWP‘s Attendance Allowance computer system. The main conditions and number of claimants across Great Britain are as follows: Arthritis (460,993), Dementia (167,366), Heart Disease (118,570), Respiratory Conditions (98,211), Disease Of The Muscles, Bones or Joints (81,914), Cerebrovascular Disease (72,870), Back Pain (71,020), Visual Disorders and Diseases (49,677), Parkinson’s (42,695), Neurological Conditions (33,812).

This list is not a checklist for claiming Attendance Allowance, but rather an indication of the types of conditions being supported. Attendance Allowance assists with extra costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough that makes it hard for you to look after yourself – it does not cover mobility needs.

You do not need to have someone caring for you in order to make a claim.

Who is eligible?

If you’re living with a disability or illness and need help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night, even if you’re not currently receiving that help, you should consider applying for Attendance Allowance. This could encompass assistance with personal care such as dressing, eating, drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing, showering, and using the toilet, or help to ensure your safety.

You should also apply if you find personal tasks challenging, for instance, if they take a long time, cause discomfort, or if you require physical support like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance isn’t exclusively for individuals with a physical disability or illness.

How much could you receive?

If you require help or supervision throughout the day or night due to a mental health condition, learning difficulties, or a sensory condition (such as being deaf or visually impaired), you should also make a claim. The amount you could receive on Attendance Allowance is either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) each week, which equates to either £290.60 or £434.20 every pay period.

The money can be used however you see fit and could assist you in maintaining your independence at home for longer. This might include covering taxi fares, contributing towards bills, or hiring a cleaner or gardener.

You can claim Attendance Allowance even if you have savings and other income.

Indeed, Attendance Allowance isn’t means-tested, so it doesn’t matter what other income you have or how much savings you possess – there’s no limit. It is also tax-free and you will be exempt from the Benefit Cap, meaning you won’t have money deducted from any other benefits.

Will Attendance Allowance impact my State Pension?

No, it won’t affect your State Pension and you can even claim it if you’re still employed and earning money. How does Attendance Allowance influence other benefits?

The other benefits you receive might increase if you get Attendance Allowance, these include: Extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit Reduction, Council Tax Reduction.

How do I make a claim?

You will need to complete a lengthy claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem intimidating at first but assistance is available from your nearest Citizens Advice, so don’t let the form deter you from applying.

What happens if I am about to reach State Pension age?

If you are considering applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) straight away – you may be able to get more money.

Who is ineligible for Attendance Allowance?

Those already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to cover their care costs are not eligible for Attendance Allowance. If you apply for Attendance Allowance while receiving DLA, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will typically reassess your DLA award instead.

You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award ends, provided you still meet the eligibility criteria. If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can then apply for Attendance Allowance.