DWP Attendance Allowance conditions that can claim up to £434 a month after new data

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released new figures showing that as of the end of February 2024, approximately 1.7 million elderly individuals were claiming Attendance Allowance.

It's worth noting that while payments may be paused for those in hospital or care homes, their entitlement remains unaffected. The Attendance Allowance, which is either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) per week, equates to either £290.60 or £434.20 every four weeks - a total of around £5,644.60 over the 2024/25 fiscal year.

The amount received depends on the level of support required and the benefit is intended to assist people of State Pension age with daily living costs, potentially enabling them to maintain independence in their own home for longer. However, it should be noted that there is no mobility component attached to Attendance Allowance.

As of February 2024, the number of elderly individuals receiving payments includes those with disabilities, long-term illnesses, and mental or physical health issues. The list of conditions supported by Attendance Allowance is extensive, but arthritis is the most common disabling condition, providing support for 460,993 people across Great Britain, including 42,115 in Scotland.

Most claimed conditions supported by Attendance Allowance

The following 10 conditions account for 1,165,693 (74%) of the 1.6m total number of people receiving Attendance Allowance payments, according to data from the DWP's Attendance Allowance computer system. It's crucial to understand that this list is not a checklist for claiming Attendance Allowance, but rather an indication of the types of conditions being supported, reports the Daily Record.

The main conditions and number of claimants across Great Britain are as follows:

Here's everything you need to know about Attendance Allowance, including the main health conditions being claimed, eligibility and how to make a claim.

Attendance Allowance assists with extra costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough that makes it hard for you to look after yourself - it does not cover mobility needs. You do not need to have someone caring for you in order to make a claim.

Who can claim?

If you have a disability or illness and require assistance or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night, even if you're not currently receiving that help, you should apply for Attendance Allowance. This could include help with personal care such as dressing, eating, drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing, showering, and using the toilet, or help to stay safe.

You should also apply if you struggle with personal tasks, for example, if they take a long time, cause pain, or if you need physical support like a chair to lean on. Attendance Allowance isn't just for people with a physical disability or illness.

How much you could get

If you need help or supervision throughout the day or night due to a mental health condition, learning difficulties, or a sensory condition (such as being deaf or visually impaired), you should also claim. The amount you could receive on Attendance Allowance is either £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) each week, which equates to either £290.60 or £434.20 every pay period.

The money can be spent however you wish and could help you maintain your independence at home for longer. This might include paying for taxis, contributing towards bills, or hiring a cleaner or gardener.

You can claim Attendance Allowance even if you have savings and other income.

Indeed, Attendance Allowance isn't means-tested, meaning it doesn't matter what other income you have or how much savings you possess - there's no limit. It is also tax-free and you will be exempt from the Benefit Cap, so you won't have money deducted from any other benefits.

Will Attendance Allowance impact my State Pension?

No, it won't affect your State Pension and you can even claim it if you're still employed and earning money. How does Attendance Allowance influence other benefits?

The other benefits you receive might increase if you get Attendance Allowance, these include: Extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit Reduction, Council Tax Reduction.

How do I make a claim?

You will need to complete a lengthy claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance. It might seem intimidating at first but assistance is available from your nearest Citizens Advice, so don't let the form deter you from applying.

If you'd prefer to do it yourself you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to fill in your claim form here. Full details of how to get the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.UK website here.

What happens if I am about to reach State Pension age?

If you are considering applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) straight away - you may be able to get more money.

Who cannot claim Attendance Allowance?

If you're already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to cover your care costs, you won't be eligible for Attendance Allowance. If you apply for Attendance Allowance while receiving DLA, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will typically reassess your DLA award instead.

You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award ends, provided you still meet the eligibility criteria. If your renewal is unsuccessful, you can then apply for Attendance Allowance.

More information about Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV. UK website.