Attendance Allowance in 2026: up to £114.60 a week for older people needing care

Attendance Allowance helps with extra costs for people over State Pension age who have a physical or mental disability or a serious health condition severe enough that they need help looking after themselves. According to GOV.UK, it is paid at two rates: £76.70 or £114.60 a week.

Who can get Attendance Allowance?

You qualify if you are at State Pension age or older and need help or supervision because of a health condition. Importantly, you do not need to actually have a carer — it is the need for help that counts. The payment does not depend on your income or savings.

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What is the difference between the two rates?

The lower rate of £76.70 is for people who need help during the day or at night. The higher rate of £114.60 is for those who need help both day and night, or who are terminally ill. The rate depends on the level of care you need.

What does Attendance Allowance not cover?

It does not cover mobility needs — other schemes exist for that. Attendance Allowance is specifically for help with personal care and supervision.

Does it affect other benefits?

Attendance Allowance does not reduce other benefits and can increase them — it may boost Pension Credit or Housing Benefit, or reduce your Council Tax. That makes it worth claiming even for people already on a pension.

What if you are in Scotland?

In Scotland you claim Pension Age Disability Payment instead. If you move to Scotland, the payment stops 13 weeks after you move, and you must apply for the Scottish equivalent.

How do you claim?

You complete an Attendance Allowance claim form, available by phone or on GOV.UK. Describe in detail what help you need and how often, including at night. The more specific your description, the more accurately your needs can be assessed.

Many older people never claim Attendance Allowance simply because they do not know it exists. Yet it is one of the few payments that ignore income, and it can open the door to other benefits.