The UK government has introduced a new, easier way for older people to claim Attendance Allowance. This benefit, which helps people over State Pension age who have a disability or health condition, can now be claimed through a simpler process designed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This update aims to make things easier for pensioners who need help but often find it difficult to fill out long forms or deal with complex paperwork.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
This Article Includes
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit, which means it does not depend on your income or savings. It is available to people who are over State Pension age and need help due to a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition.
The payment is meant to support individuals who need help with personal care or supervision during the day or night. You don’t have to spend the money on care—it’s up to you how you use it.
Who Can Get It?
You can apply for Attendance Allowance if:
- You are over State Pension age (currently 66 in the UK)
- You have a disability or health condition that affects your daily life
- You’ve needed support or supervision for at least six months
- You are not already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- You live in Great Britain when making the claim
This includes people with physical disabilities like arthritis, or conditions like dementia, heart disease, or visual impairments. Even if you don’t have a formal diagnosis, you may still qualify if your condition affects your daily activities.
What’s Changing in 2025?
Until now, many people found the application process difficult because it involved filling out a long paper form and understanding detailed medical questions. The process often felt stressful, especially for older people who might not be comfortable with paperwork or online tools.
To solve this, the DWP is introducing a new way to apply that is more straightforward. Here’s what’s new:
- A digital version of the application form is being tested
- More user-friendly instructions will be provided
- Advisors will be available to guide people through the process
- Faster processing times are being promised
This change is being tested in select areas first. If successful, it will be expanded across the UK.
How to Apply
Currently, the traditional way to apply is by phone. You can request the Attendance Allowance claim form by calling the DWP Attendance Allowance helpline:
0800 731 0122 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm)
After receiving the form, you fill it out and post it to the address provided. But soon, people in certain trial areas will be able to complete the application online, without needing to print or mail anything.
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
- Your National Insurance number
- Details of your health condition or disability
- A list of medications and treatments you take
- Information about how your condition affects your daily life
- Your GP or healthcare provider’s contact information
It’s important to explain clearly how your condition affects you, even if you aren’t currently receiving any help from someone else.
How Much Will You Get?
Attendance Allowance is paid at two different weekly rates depending on how much help you need:
- Lower rate: £72.65 per week – if you need help during either day or night
- Higher rate: £108.55 per week – if you need help during both day and night, or if you are terminally ill
The payments are made every four weeks, and the money goes directly into your bank or building society account.
Why Is This Important?
Many people don’t even know that Attendance Allowance exists. Even those who qualify often don’t apply because the process seems complicated or they don’t think they’re eligible.
With the DWP’s new system, more people will be able to apply without confusion or stress. This can make a real difference in daily life for older people—helping them cover costs like transport, heating, or home help.
The DWP says the goal is to reduce barriers and make sure no one misses out on the support they need, just because of paperwork.
Final Words
If you or someone you know is over the State Pension age and struggling with a health condition, it’s worth checking if they could claim Attendance Allowance.
This benefit can make a big difference in quality of life, and now with the DWP’s new changes, the process is becoming much easier.
Keep an eye out for the digital application rollout in your area. For now, you can still apply by calling the helpline or visiting gov.uk/attendance-allowance.