Attendance Allowance is a UK government benefit designed to help older people who need additional support because of a disability, long-term illness or health condition.

The benefit is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in England and Wales and is available to eligible people who have reached State Pension age.

For the 2026–2027 tax year, Attendance Allowance pays £76.70 or £114.60 per week, depending on the level of care or supervision required.

Unlike many other benefits, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. Your income, savings and property ownership do not automatically prevent you from qualifying.

You also do not need to have a paid carer or receive professional care services to claim. Eligibility is based on the help you reasonably need, even if nobody currently provides that assistance.

For pensioners, homeowners and families supporting older relatives, understanding Attendance Allowance can help with financial planning, care arrangements and decisions about suitable accommodation.

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What Is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a tax-free disability benefit for people who have reached State Pension age and need help with personal care or supervision because of a health condition or disability.

The benefit can help with additional living expenses, although recipients are not required to spend the money on a particular service.

It may contribute towards personal assistance, household support, heating costs or other expenses associated with living with a disability.

Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates, depending on the claimant's needs.

It does not include a separate mobility component.

How Much Is Attendance Allowance in 2026?

Attendance Allowance rates increased in April 2026.

The confirmed rates for the 2026–2027 tax year are:

The annual figures assume 52 weeks of entitlement.

Attendance Allowance is normally paid every four weeks directly into a bank, building society or credit union account.

Attendance Allowance Payment Calculator

Use this calculator to estimate how much Attendance Allowance you could receive based on the rate awarded.

Who Is Eligible for Attendance Allowance?

To qualify for Attendance Allowance, applicants generally need to meet several conditions.

They must have reached State Pension age and have a physical or mental disability, or a health condition, that creates a need for personal care or supervision.

The need for assistance must normally have existed for at least six months.

Applicants must also satisfy the relevant residence and presence requirements.

Different rules apply to people nearing the end of life.

Eligibility depends on the assistance required rather than simply having a particular medical diagnosis.

What Age Can You Claim Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is intended for people who have reached State Pension age.

During 2026, the State Pension age is gradually increasing from 66 to 67, depending on an individual's date of birth.

This means the qualifying age is not identical for everyone.

People who are below State Pension age may instead need to consider Personal Independence Payment (PIP), subject to its eligibility conditions.

Those already receiving certain disability benefits may continue under different arrangements after reaching State Pension age.

What Medical Conditions Qualify for Attendance Allowance?

There is no definitive list of medical conditions that automatically guarantees Attendance Allowance.

Conditions that may be associated with qualifying care needs include arthritis, dementia, Parkinson's disease, stroke-related disabilities, severe visual impairment and long-term neurological conditions.

People with mental health conditions or learning disabilities may also qualify where they need relevant assistance or supervision.

The DWP considers the practical impact of the condition.

Two people with the same diagnosis may receive different decisions because their care needs are different.

Attendance Allowance for Arthritis

Arthritis can affect mobility, dexterity and the ability to perform everyday personal care activities.

Some people experience difficulties with dressing, washing, bathing or using the toilet.

Pain, stiffness and fatigue may make tasks difficult to complete safely.

Where arthritis creates qualifying care or supervision needs, Attendance Allowance may be available.

However, the diagnosis alone does not establish entitlement.

Attendance Allowance for Dementia

People living with dementia may need support with personal care, medication or everyday safety.

They may require reminders, prompting or supervision to complete essential activities.

Some individuals experience confusion, memory difficulties or disorientation that create safety risks.

Attendance Allowance can be relevant where these needs satisfy the applicable criteria.

Family members and carers may help document the support required.

Attendance Allowance for Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease can affect movement, balance, coordination and everyday functioning.

Some people need assistance with dressing, eating, washing or other personal activities.

Symptoms may fluctuate during the day.

Applicants should explain how their condition affects th