Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit designed to help with the extra costs of living with a disability.
It’s paid to people aged State Pension age or over who have a disability that makes it difficult for them to look after themselves.
This guide will help you understand how much you could be entitled to.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit provided by the UK government to individuals over State Pension age who require assistance with personal care or supervision due to a disability or long-term health condition.
It’s designed to help cover the extra costs associated with living with a disability.
How Does Attendance Allowance Work?
Attendance Allowance is paid at two different rates:
- Lower rate: £72.65 per week. This is paid if you need help or supervision during the day or at night.
- Higher rate: £108.55 per week. This is paid if you need help or supervision both during the day and at night, or if a medical professional has said you have 12 months or less to live.
The amount you get depends on the level of care you need.
You can spend the money however you like, but it’s often used to pay for things like extra help with housework, personal care, or to buy equipment to help with daily living.
Who is Eligible for Attendance Allowance?
To be eligible for Attendance Allowance, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: You must have reached State Pension age.
- Disability: You must have a physical or mental disability that makes it difficult for you to look after yourself.
- Need for help: You must require regular help with personal care tasks, such as washing, dressing, or eating, or supervision for your own safety or the safety of others.
- Duration: You must have needed this help for at least six months.
It’s important to note that Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, which means your income or savings will not affect how much you get.
How to Claim Attendance Allowance
You can claim Attendance Allowance online, by phone, or by post.
You will need to provide information about your disability and the level of care you need.
You may also need to provide medical evidence to support your claim.
How Long Does it Take to Get Attendance Allowance?
It can take up to 12 weeks to process your Attendance Allowance claim.
If you need help while you’re waiting for your claim to be processed, you can contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) for an advance payment.
Can I Get Attendance Allowance if I’m in a Care Home?
Yes, you can still get Attendance Allowance if you’re in a care home.
However, the amount you get may be reduced if you’re receiving Constant Attendance Allowance.
Can I Get Other Benefits with Attendance Allowance?
Getting Attendance Allowance could affect your entitlement to other benefits.
You might be able to get extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.
What Happens if My Circumstances Change?
If your circumstances change, you should tell the DWP as soon as possible.
This could mean that you need more or less help, or that you no longer need Attendance Allowance.
How is Attendance Allowance Paid?
Attendance Allowance is paid every four weeks into your bank, building society, or credit union account.
What if I Disagree with the Decision?
If you disagree with the decision about your Attendance Allowance claim, you can appeal.
You have one month to appeal from the date you receive the decision.
Attendance Allowance can help with the extra costs of living with a disability and help you maintain your independence.
If you think you might be eligible, it’s worth making a claim.