Understanding Attendance Allowance: Who Can Claim and How
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care. This guide explains eligibility, how to claim, and how it can help pay for care costs.
Important
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit worth up to £108.55 per week (2024/25 rates). It's designed to help cover the extra costs of long-term illness or disability.
- You must be State Pension age or over
- You need help with personal care or supervision
- Your care needs have lasted at least 6 months (or you're terminally ill)
- You normally live in Great Britain
Lower rate (£72.65/week): You need help during the day OR night. Higher rate (£108.55/week): You need help during BOTH day and night, or you're terminally ill.
Complete form AA1, available from Gov.uk or by calling 0800 731 0122. Include detailed information about your care needs on good and bad days.
Importantly, receiving Attendance Allowance can increase the amount you're allowed to keep from your income when calculating care home contributions.
Age UK offers free help completing the form: 0800 678 1602. Citizens Advice can also assist with benefit claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Attendance Allowance means-tested?
No, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. Your income, savings, and assets don't affect eligibility. It's based solely on your care needs.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance if I'm in a care home?
If you self-fund your care, yes. However, if your care home fees are paid by the local authority, you generally can't receive Attendance Allowance.
How long does it take to process a claim?
Claims typically take around 8 weeks to process. If you're terminally ill, you can apply under Special Rules and receive a decision much faster.
Need More Help?
Support Organisations
- Age UK:0800 678 1602
- Carers UK:0808 808 7777
- Alzheimer's Society:0333 150 3456
- Parkinson's UK:0808 800 0303
Care Directory Support
Sources & References
- Gov.uk
- Age UK
- Citizens Advice