The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed the 2025 Attendance Allowance rates, and from April 2025, some claimants will receive up to £110 per week. This payment is designed to support pensioners with disabilities or health conditions that require extra care. In this guide, we will break down who qualifies, how to apply, and when you can expect payments.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit provided by the DWP to help older people who have a disability or long-term illness that impacts their daily living. It is specifically aimed at those who have reached State Pension age and need help with personal care, even if they do not currently receive any physical assistance. Unlike some benefits, it does not depend on your savings or income, meaning you can still claim it regardless of financial status.
How Much Is Attendance Allowance In 2025?
From April 2025, the Attendance Allowance rates will increase in line with the September 2024 inflation rate. The highest rate will now be £110 per week, with the lower rate set at £73.65 per week. The rate you receive depends on the level of care you require:
- Higher rate (£110 per week): For those who need frequent help during both the day and night, or are terminally ill.
- Lower rate (£73.65 per week): For those who need help either during the day or at night.
These payments are made every four weeks, meaning the higher rate could amount to £440 every four weeks for eligible pensioners.
Who Is Eligible For Attendance Allowance?
Eligibility is based on several criteria, and it is important to ensure you meet them before applying. You must:
- Be State Pension age or older.
- Have a physical or mental disability, or illness, that makes it hard to look after yourself.
- Have needed help for at least six months, unless you are terminally ill.
- Live in Great Britain when making your claim.
It’s worth noting that Attendance Allowance is not available to those already receiving the care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Health Conditions That Qualify
The DWP does not have a strict list of qualifying medical conditions. Instead, it assesses how your health affects your daily life. Conditions that often meet the criteria include arthritis, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, severe vision impairment, heart disease, and terminal illnesses. Mental health conditions like severe depression or anxiety may also qualify if they significantly affect daily living.
How To Apply For Attendance Allowance
Applying for Attendance Allowance can be done by requesting a claim form from the Attendance Allowance helpline or downloading it from the official government website. The form is detailed and requires information about your daily care needs, medical conditions, and how they impact you.
Once completed, you can post it to the address listed on the form. It’s recommended to include supporting medical evidence such as GP letters, hospital reports, or prescriptions. These documents can strengthen your application and improve your chances of approval.
DWP Assessment Process
After submitting your claim, the DWP will review your application. In some cases, they may request a face-to-face or telephone assessment to better understand your needs. During this process, they assess how much help you require and whether you qualify for the higher or lower rate.
The DWP’s decision letter will confirm your rate and when payments will begin. If your claim is refused, you can request a mandatory reconsideration and, if necessary, appeal the decision.
Pay Dates For Attendance Allowance 2025
Attendance Allowance is usually paid every four weeks, directly into your bank account. The exact payment date depends on your National Insurance number:
- NI number ending in 00–19: Paid on Monday.
- NI number ending in 20–39: Paid on Tuesday.
- NI number ending in 40–59: Paid on Wednesday.
- NI number ending in 60–79: Paid on Thursday.
- NI number ending in 80–99: Paid on Friday.
If your payment date falls on a bank holiday, you will receive the money on the previous working day. This is especially relevant during Easter, Christmas, and summer bank holidays in 2025.
Changes In 2025 You Should Know
The April 2025 increase means thousands of pensioners will see a rise in their Attendance Allowance payments, helping them manage rising living costs. The government has also introduced faster processing for terminal illness claims, ensuring payments start within a matter of days rather than weeks.
In addition, more emphasis is being placed on digital applications, making it easier for people to claim online without having to wait for paper forms. However, phone and postal applications remain available for those who prefer them.
Impact On Other Benefits
Attendance Allowance can increase the amount you receive from other benefits, such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction. Because it is not means-tested, it will not reduce these benefits but can instead trigger additional entitlements.
However, Attendance Allowance cannot be claimed alongside PIP or DLA’s care component, as they cover similar needs.
Common Reasons For Rejection
Many claims are rejected because applicants fail to give enough detail about their care needs. It is important to describe your worst days, not just your average days, and explain any difficulties you face with personal care, mobility, and safety. Providing thorough examples can significantly improve your chances of a successful claim.
How To Report Changes To The DWP
If your circumstances change after receiving Attendance Allowance—such as an improvement in health, moving into a care home, or leaving the country—you must inform the DWP. Failing to do so could result in overpayments that you might have to repay.
Final Thoughts
The £110 Attendance Allowance rate in 2025 is a vital source of financial help for older people with significant care needs. With higher payments and improved processing times, more pensioners are expected to benefit. If you believe you might qualify, it’s worth applying as soon as possible to secure your entitlement and make the most of the available support.