Attendance Allowance

What is Attendance Allowance?

If you are over your state pension age, and have a disability or long-term health condition which makes it difficult for you to look after yourself, you might be able to claim Attendance Allowance. Click here to check your state pension age.

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You can't claim Attendance Allowance at the same time as PIP. You can claim PIP up until your state pension age. You will usually get more money through PIP, so if you have an existing award of PIP where the end date takes you over your state pension age, you should keep this claim and then make a claim for Attendance Allowance when your PIP runs out.

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The activities which Attendance Allowance looks at are:

• Getting in and out of bed

• Toilet needs

• Washing, bathing, showering and looking after your appearance

• Dressing and undressing 

• Moving around indoors

• Help with falls or stumbling

• Cutting up food, eating or drinking

• Taking medication

• Communicating

• Help taking part in hobbies and social or religious activities

• Supervision because of risk to yourself or others 

• Sleeping comfortably and changing position in bed

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How do I claim Attendance Allowance?

You can start your Attendance Allowance claim by calling 0800 731 0122. You will need to give your basic details. You will then be sent a form to fill in to explain what support you need.

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Filling out your form

The form asks you about what support you need during the day and at night. If you don't currently get support, you should explain what support you need. For example: 'I need encouragement to eat but I don't currently get this support. I have trouble motivating myself to eat because of low mood and fatigue. This means that 2-3 days per week I don't eat anything, and I have lost weight because of this'. Question 49 gives space for a statement from someone who knows you. Ideally this will come from a health professional- your GP or specialist. However, it could come from a support worker, occupational therapist, friend or family member. This statement should focus on your condition and how it affects your ability to do the personal tasks looked at by Attendance Allowance. It's a good idea to get some advice before you fill out your form. You can contact us to speak to one of our benefits advisors via the contact details below.

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How much will I get?

You will get the lower rate of Attendance Allowance if you need attention, supervision or watching over during the day or the night. You will get the higher rate of Attendance Allowance if you need attention, supervision or watching over during the day and the night.

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Attendance Allowance rates 2020/2021

Lower rate- £59.70 per week

Higher rate- £89.15 per week​

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If your Attendance Allowance claim is turned down, or if you get the lower rate when you think you should get the higher rate, you have the right to challenge the decision.

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