More than 1.6 million people in the UK receive Attendance Allowance, a benefit designed to support older individuals with additional financial needs due to disability or illness. However, many claimants may be eligible for an increase in their payments if their condition has worsened or they require more assistance.
Currently, Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates:
- Standard Rate: £72.65 per week
- Higher Rate: £108.55 per week
If a claimant qualifies for the higher rate, their four-weekly payment increases to £434.20—an increase of £143.60 per month.
How to Qualify for a Higher Attendance Allowance Rate
If your health condition has worsened or you now require more help during the day and night, you may qualify for the higher payment rate. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) advises claimants to report any changes in circumstances as soon as possible.
The higher rate of £108.55 per week is available if:
- You need help or supervision during both day and night.
- A doctor has said you have 12 months or less to live.
The standard rate of £72.65 per week is awarded if you need help either during the day or at night.
Reasons to Contact the DWP About Changes in Your Condition
According to DWP guidelines, claimants should report changes such as:
- Increased need for help with personal care (e.g., dressing, eating, bathing, or using the toilet).
- A medical professional confirming a terminal illness (life expectancy of 12 months or less).
- A hospital or care home stay (including providing address details and payment method).
- Leaving the UK for more than four weeks.
- Going to prison.
- Changes to name, address, bank details, or doctor’s details.
- Deciding to stop receiving the benefit.
- Changes in immigration status (if not a British citizen).
Failure to report a change could lead to incorrect payments or even overpayments that need to be repaid.
What Can You Use Attendance Allowance For?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit, meaning:
It does not affect your State Pension.
You can claim it even if you are working.
It is not reduced based on income or savings.
It is exempt from the benefit cap, so it won’t reduce other benefits.
It could increase other benefits such as:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
Claimants can spend the money however they choose, whether on transport, household help, or additional care to maintain their independence at home.
Common Conditions Covered by Attendance Allowance
There are over 50 conditions that Attendance Allowance supports. The most common is arthritis, with nearly 30% of claimants (416,313 people) receiving the benefit for this condition.
Other eligible conditions include:
- Physical disabilities or long-term illnesses
- Mental health conditions
- Learning difficulties
- Sensory impairments (e.g., blindness or deafness)
If you already claim Attendance Allowance but develop another condition or your current condition worsens, you may qualify for higher payments.
How to Apply for an Attendance Allowance Increase
To report a change or inquire about increasing your Attendance Allowance payments, contact the Attendance Allowance helpline at:
0800 731 0122 (Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM)
You can also find detailed guidance on reporting changes on the GOV.UK website.
Attendance Allowance provides crucial financial support for older individuals with disabilities or long-term illnesses. If your condition has worsened or you now require more help, you could qualify for an extra £143.60 per month. Since it is not means-tested, your savings and income will not impact your eligibility, and it can even increase other benefits. If you think you may be entitled to a higher payment, contact the DWP helpline as soon as possible to ensure you receive the full support available to you.
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FAQ’s
How can I increase my Attendance Allowance payments?
If your condition worsens or you need more help, you may qualify for the higher rate of £108.55 per week. Report changes to the DWP as soon as possible.
What is the higher rate of Attendance Allowance?
The higher rate is £108.55 per week (£434.20 every four weeks) and is awarded if you need help during both the day and night or if you have a terminal illness.
Does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
No, it does not affect your State Pension and is exempt from the benefits cap. It may even increase Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction.
What conditions qualify for Attendance Allowance?
There are over 50 eligible conditions, including arthritis, sensory impairments, mental health conditions, and physical disabilities.
How do I report a change in my condition for Attendance Allowance?
You can report a change by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122 (Monday to Friday, 8 AM – 6 PM) or visiting GOV.UK for details.