The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced a significant update impacting over 1.7 million elderly individuals across Great Britain who are now receiving additional financial support through Attendance Allowance.
Financial Support and Key Changes
This benefit provides weekly payments of either £73.90 or £110.40, distributed every four weeks, to assist State Pension age individuals with the extra costs associated with a disability, chronic illness, or mental or physical health condition.
In a major administrative shift, the DWP has confirmed that in Scotland, new claims for Attendance Allowance have been replaced by the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP). This devolved benefit is managed by Social Security Scotland. Existing Scottish claimants will be automatically transitioned to the new system by the end of next month.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
The DWP has introduced a new online application service, but it is currently being rolled out in a limited capacity. The GOV.UK guidance states the online service will only accept a "limited number of applications each week" and cannot be accessed via mobile phone or tablet; a desktop or laptop computer is required.
For those unable to apply online, the traditional postal method remains available. Applicants can print the form from GOV.UK or request one by calling the helpline on 0800 731 0122. The DWP has issued a crucial update for postal applications, reminding claimants to only write the Freepost address on the envelope, as it requires no postcode or stamp.
A DWP spokesperson clarified the ongoing changes: "We are temporarily testing a new online service to make claiming Attendance Allowance easier and to improve accessibility. While the online service is not yet widely available, no-one will miss out on the benefit as claimants can still apply in the usual way by post."
Understanding Eligibility and Conditions
Attendance Allowance is designed to help people with personal care needs, such as getting dressed, eating, bathing, or needing supervision to stay safe. It is not means-tested, is tax-free, and does not affect your State Pension. You do not need to have a carer to claim.
The most common health condition among claimants is arthritis, which affects 508,964 people. The top 10 most-claimed conditions are:
- Arthritis - 508,964 claimants
- Dementia - 176,864 claimants
- Heart Disease - 129,143 claimants
- Respiratory Conditions - 109,287 claimants
- Disease Of The Muscles, Bones or Joints - 90,910 claimants
- Back Pain - 78,845 claimants
- Cerebrovascular Disease - 76,289 claimants
- Visual Disorders and Diseases - 52,190 claimants
- Parkinson’s - 45,779 claimants
- Neurological Conditions - 37,838 claimants
If you struggle with personal tasks due to a physical or mental condition, you may be eligible for this financial support, which can help you maintain independence at home for longer.
