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The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is urging eligible UK residents to check if they qualify for a £441 payment every four weeks through Attendance Allowance.
This non-means-tested benefit supports those aged State Pension age or older who are living with physical or mental disabilities that require care or supervision.
Despite its importance, over one million pensioners are still missing out on this crucial payment, many simply because they don’t know they qualify.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit for those who:
- Are physically or mentally disabled
- Are over State Pension age
- Require assistance with care or supervision
The benefit is not affected by income, savings, or mobility needs, and qualifying for it may also increase entitlement to other benefits like Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.
Payment Rates for Attendance Allowance (2025 Update)
The amount you receive depends on the level of care needed. As of April 2025, following a 1.7% increase in benefits, the payment rates are:
| Care Level | Weekly Rate | Four-Week Rate | Annual Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 | £3,842.80 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 | £5,644.80 |
The lower rate is for those needing frequent help or supervision during the day or night, while the higher rate applies to those requiring care both day and night or with a terminal illness.
57 Health Conditions That Could Qualify You
The DWP has highlighted 57 common physical and mental conditions that may make you eligible for Attendance Allowance. While a complete list is available on official platforms, here are a few examples of qualifying conditions:
| Common Qualifying Conditions |
|---|
| Arthritis |
| Dementia |
| Heart disease |
| Parkinson’s disease |
| Multiple sclerosis |
| Stroke aftermath |
| Asthma (severe) |
| Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) |
| Diabetes complications |
| Vision or hearing impairments |
If you live with one or more of these conditions and need help with daily tasks, even if you don’t currently receive care, you may still qualify.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
Applying is free and can be done by phone or post:
Step-by-Step Process:
- Call DWP at 0800 731 0122 to request a claim form.
- Alternatively, download the AA1 form from the official GOV.UK website.
- Fill out the form thoroughly, especially the section detailing how your condition affects your daily life.
- Provide any supporting medical documents, if available.
- Send the completed form to the address provided.
You may also backdate your claim by up to six months if you were eligible during that period.
Why This Matters Now
With energy prices, healthcare costs, and cost-of-living pressures increasing, Attendance Allowance can make a significant difference. Many eligible individuals believe they don’t qualify due to savings or lack of formal care, but the DWP stresses that these factors do not impact eligibility.
By raising awareness, the government hopes to help more seniors maintain their independence and access the care they need.
The DWP Attendance Allowance offers essential support to those living with one of 57 common health conditions. At £441 every four weeks, this benefit can significantly ease financial stress for pensioners needing daily support.
Don’t assume you’re ineligible—check today, and help an elderly relative or neighbor do the same.
Claiming what you’re entitled to could be life-changing.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the £441 DWP Attendance Allowance?
People of State Pension age with physical or mental disabilities requiring care or supervision may be eligible.
Do income or savings affect eligibility?
No, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested—income and savings do not impact your claim.
How often is the benefit paid?
The benefit is paid every four weeks, with the maximum amount being £441.60 per period at the higher rate.