Attendance Allowance
A weekly payment of £76.70 or £114.60 for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision. It is not means-tested.
How much it is
| Rate | Weekly amount | Level of help needed |
|---|---|---|
| Lower rate | £76.70 | Frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night |
| Higher rate | £114.60 | Help or supervision throughout both day and night, or nearing the end of life |
Source: GOV.UK. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested: what you earn or how much you have in savings does not affect what you get. It is paid to the person who needs the help, and they can use it however they choose, including towards the cost of care.
Who can get it
You can get Attendance Allowance if you have reached State Pension age and (GOV.UK):
- You have a physical disability, a mental disability, or a health condition
- It is severe enough for you to need help caring for yourself, or someone to supervise you for your own or someone else's safety
- You have needed that help for at least 6 months
There are different rules if someone is nearing the end of life: they may get Attendance Allowance more quickly and at the higher rate. It does not cover mobility needs, and you don't need to have a carer to claim.
What counts as help
- Help with washing, bathing, dressing, eating or using the toilet
- Reminding, prompting or encouraging, for example with medication or meals
- Someone keeping an eye on you to keep you safe
- Help you need even if you don't currently get it
The other help it can unlock
If you get Attendance Allowance, you could also get extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction. A family member who cares for you for at least 35 hours a week may be able to get Carer's Allowance.
Tips for claiming
- Describe a typical day, including the worst days and the nights
- Explain help you need, not only help you get
- Include letters from the GP or hospital if you have them
- If you are refused, ask for a mandatory reconsideration before appealing
Rates and rules checked against GOV.UK and the NHS in October 2026. Benefit rates usually change each April.
More on paying for care
Questions
How much is Attendance Allowance?
£76.70 a week at the lower rate and £114.60 a week at the higher rate.
Is Attendance Allowance means-tested?
No. Your income and savings do not affect it.
Can I use Attendance Allowance to pay for a carer?
Yes. It is paid to you and you can spend it however you choose, including on care at home.
What if I am under State Pension age?
You may be able to claim Personal Independence Payment instead.