Starting in June 2025, the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will implement an increase in Attendance Allowance payments. This adjustment aims to provide additional financial support to older adults with long-term health conditions, assisting them in managing daily personal care needs.
Summary Table: DWP Announces Attendance Allowance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Weekly Rates | Lower Rate: £73.90; Higher Rate: £110.40 |
| Effective Date | June 2025 |
| Eligibility Age | Over State Pension age |
| Means-Tested | No |
| Application Form | Available on GOV.UK |
| Additional Benefits | Potential eligibility for Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction |
| Scotland Transition | Moving to Pension Age Disability Payment by July 2025 |
Overview of Attendance Allowance
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit designed for individuals over State Pension age who require assistance with personal care due to physical or mental health conditions. The allowance is structured to help cover the extra costs associated with needing care or supervision.
Updated Payment Rates Effective June 2025
In alignment with the 1.7% inflation rate recorded in September 2024, the DWP has announced the following updated weekly rates for Attendance Allowance:
- Lower Rate: £73.90 per week
- Higher Rate: £110.40 per week
These rates represent an increase from the previous amounts of £72.65 and £108.55, respectively.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be over State Pension age
- Have a physical or mental disability or health condition that requires care or supervision
- Have needed help for at least six months (this waiting period is waived for terminally ill applicants)
- Not be receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP)MRAMC, GOV.UK
Importantly, eligibility is not affected by income or savings, and having a carer is not a prerequisite for claiming the allowance.
Application Process
Applying for Attendance Allowance involves the following steps:
- Obtain the Application Form: Download the form from the official GOV.UK website or request a paper version by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline.
- Complete the Form: Provide detailed information about how your condition affects your daily life.
- Submit the Application: Send the completed form to the address specified in the instructions.
While a doctor’s note is not mandatory, including supporting medical evidence can strengthen your application.
Additional Financial Support
Receiving Attendance Allowance may entitle you to further financial assistance, such as:
- Pension Credit: An income-related benefit for people over State Pension age.
- Housing Benefit: Help with rent payments.
- Council Tax Reduction: A discount on your Council Tax bill.
It’s advisable to inform the DWP and your local council upon receiving Attendance Allowance to explore these additional benefits.
Transition in Scotland: Pension Age Disability Payment
In Scotland, Attendance Allowance is being replaced by the Pension Age Disability Payment, managed by Social Security Scotland. This transition began in October 2024 and will be completed by June 2025. Current recipients of Attendance Allowance in Scotland will be automatically transferred to the new system without any interruption in payments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the new Attendance Allowance rates from May 2025?
A1: The lower rate will be £73.90 per week, and the higher rate will be £110.40 per week.
Q2: Am I eligible for Attendance Allowance if I have savings?
A2: Yes, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so your savings and income do not affect your eligibility.
Q3: Do I need a carer to apply for Attendance Allowance?
A3: No, you can apply for Attendance Allowance even if you do not have a carer.
Q4: How do I apply for Attendance Allowance?
A4: You can download the application form from the GOV.UK website or request a paper version by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline.
Q5: What changes are happening in Scotland regarding Attendance Allowance?
A5: In Scotland, Attendance Allowance is being replaced by the Pension Age Disability Payment. Existing recipients will be automatically transferred to the new system by July 2025.
For more detailed information and to access the application form, please visit the official GOV.UK Attendance Allowance page.
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