State Pensioners Urged to Check Attendance Allowance Entitlement as Weekly Payments Could Rise to Over £140
Pensioners across the UK may be eligible for a significant increase in their Attendance Allowance payments, with some able to claim up to £110.40 per week from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This support, specifically designed for individuals over the state pension age of 66, offers a vital financial boost for those living with illness or disability who require regular personal care or supervision.
Attendance Allowance remains an essential benefit for older adults striving to maintain their independence at home despite health challenges. The allowance is dispensed at two separate rates based on the claimant’s care needs: a lower rate and a higher rate. Notably, people currently receiving the lower rate may not be aware they could qualify for more if their health needs have increased since their initial award.
As it stands in 2025, the lower rate is set at £73.90 per week, while the higher rate is £110.40. For eligible pensioners, moving from the lower to the higher rate could result in an additional £146 monthly, with the four-weekly payment rising from £295.60 to £441.60. These figures can make a significant difference to those managing daily living costs amid ongoing financial pressures.
It is important for anyone receiving Attendance Allowance, or those acting on their behalf, to report changes in their health or personal circumstances to the DWP promptly. According to official guidelines, there are nine key changes that must be shared with the Department. These include an increase or decrease in the help needed, extended absences from the UK (over four weeks), hospital or care home stays, changes to doctor’s details, changes in address, or changes to immigration status for non-British nationals.
Reporting such changes isn’t just about potentially securing higher payments—it’s also vital for avoiding financial penalties. Failure to notify the DWP of relevant changes may result in repayments of overpaid benefits or, in some cases, legal repercussions. Claimants can contact the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122, use the textphone service at 0800 731 0317, or access Relay UK by dialling 18001 then 0800 731 0122 for assistance.
Unlike many other benefits, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. A claimant’s savings or current income level will not impact eligibility, nor will receiving Attendance Allowance affect most other benefits. In fact, receiving the benefit can unlock access to extra support, like Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or reductions in council tax, providing further relief for older people living on fixed incomes.
Eligibility criteria require applicants to be over state pension age and experiencing difficulty due to disability or illness. Conditions can range from sensory impairments—such as problems with sight or hearing—to mobility challenges like arthritis, mental health conditions including dementia, and other chronic health issues. Those applying do not need a formal diagnosis, but must show they have required care for at least six months prior to a claim, unless they are terminally ill, in which case the requirement is waived.
It should be noted that individuals already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), or the care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) are not eligible for Attendance Allowance. Those who think they may qualify must complete an official Attendance Allowance form, detailing the support they need—and, crucially, the areas where they do not require assistance. This form can be secured by calling the helpline or downloading it directly from the Government’s official website.
As the cost of living continues to put pressure on vulnerable groups, it is more important than ever for pensioners and their families to ensure they receive all the financial support they are entitled to. With the possibility of boosting payments by over £140 each month, checking one’s eligibility for Attendance Allowance could provide essential support in later life.