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Attendance Allowance: up to £108.55/week for over-65s

20 May 2026 · 2 min read

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Attendance Allowance pays up to **£108.55 per week** (£5,645/year) to people over State Pension age who have a health condition or disability. You don't need to have a carer to claim it.


Who qualifies?


You may qualify if you:

  • Are over **State Pension age**
  • Have a **physical or mental health condition** (including dementia, arthritis, COPD, heart conditions, mobility problems)
  • Need help with **personal care** OR **supervision** to stay safe

    • The two rates


  • **Lower rate: £72.65/week** — if you need help during the day OR night
  • **Higher rate: £108.55/week** — if you need help during the day AND night, or you're terminally ill

    • What counts as "needing help"?


    You don't have to actually receive help — you just need to show that you **need** it. Examples:

  • Help getting dressed or undressed
  • Help bathing or using the toilet
  • Someone to remind you to take medication
  • Supervision to prevent falls
  • Help preparing meals
  • Someone to keep you safe at night

    • How to apply


  • **Phone**: 0800 731 0122
  • **Post**: download form AA1 from gov.uk
  • **Special rules**: if terminally ill, claims are fast-tracked (ask for "special rules" when calling)

    • Why claim?


    Beyond the payment itself, Attendance Allowance can:

  • Qualify the person you care for for other benefits
  • Help you qualify for **Carer's Allowance** (£81.90/week)
  • Increase your **Pension Credit** entitlement
  • Help with **Council Tax discount** (if you live alone or with another disabled person)

    • Tips


  • Describe your **worst days**, not your best
  • Include everything — even things you think are "normal" for your age
  • Get a supporting letter from your GP
  • Claims can be backdated if you were already eligible

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