£5,644 DWP Payment: The £5,644 DWP Payment, officially known as Attendance Allowance, is a crucial financial lifeline for many older UK citizens. It is specifically designed to support those over the State Pension age who are living with a disability or health condition and require help with personal care or supervision. Unlike many other benefits, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested, so it doesn’t matter how much you earn or how much savings you have. It can offer up to £108.55 per week, which totals to £5,644.60 annually. This guide breaks down everything you need to know — eligibility, application process, key tips, and more — in a friendly yet professional tone, backed by official sources and expert advice.
£5,644 DWP Payment
The £5,644 DWP Attendance Allowance is one of the most valuable yet under-claimed benefits in the UK. If you or a loved one are struggling with daily tasks due to age-related conditions, this tax-free support could ease financial pressure and improve quality of life. Take action today — check your eligibility, gather the right documents, and apply confidently.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Attendance Allowance |
| Annual Value | Up to £5,644.60 |
| Who Can Claim? | UK citizens aged 66+ with a disability or health condition |
| Is It Means-Tested? | No – Income or savings do not affect eligibility |
| Payment Rates | £72.65 (lower) or £108.55 (higher) per week |
| Application Method | Paper form via post (requested online or by phone) |
| Link to Apply | GOV.UK – Attendance Allowance |
| Additional Benefits | Can unlock Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Carer’s Allowance & more |
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help people aged 66 and above who need assistance due to a long-term physical or mental disability.
This includes those with:
- Mobility issues (e.g., arthritis, Parkinson’s)
- Sensory impairments (e.g., vision or hearing loss)
- Cognitive impairments (e.g., dementia)
- Mental health conditions (e.g., severe anxiety, depression)
It is not linked to employment and doesn’t require a formal diagnosis, but you must demonstrate how your condition affects daily life.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for Attendance Allowance in 2024, you must:
- Be State Pension age or older (currently 66+)
- Be physically or mentally disabled
- Have needed help for at least 6 months (unless terminally ill)
- Be habitually resident in the UK and not subject to immigration control
You do NOT need to have a full-time carer or receive any other benefits to be eligible.
How Much Can You Get?
The benefit is paid at two different weekly rates:
- Lower Rate (£72.65/week): If you need help either during the day or night
- Higher Rate (£108.55/week): If you need help both day and night, or you’re terminally ill
That’s up to £5,644.60 per year, paid every four weeks directly into your bank account.
Real-Life Example: Who Benefits?
Margaret, 74, has mobility issues due to arthritis. She struggles with stairs, preparing meals, and needs help bathing. She applied and now receives the lower rate of Attendance Allowance, which helps her pay for a home helper three times a week.
George, 83, has dementia and needs supervision throughout the day and night. He qualifies for the higher rate, enabling his daughter to arrange full-time care.
How to Apply for the £5,644 DWP Payment: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Get the Form
- Call: 0800 731 0122 (Attendance Allowance helpline)
- Download: Claim Form from GOV.UK
2. Complete the Form
Include detailed, real-life examples like:
- “I need help getting in and out of the bath because I lose balance.”
- “My memory issues make it unsafe to cook without supervision.”
3. Submit the Form
Send the form to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance
No stamp or address details are needed.
4. Wait for a Decision
- Most claims are processed within 6–8 weeks
- You’ll receive a letter detailing the decision
- If rejected, you can ask for a reconsideration or appeal
Application Tips
- Use the “Extra information” pages to explain how your condition affects you
- Get help from Citizens Advice or Age UK with form filling
- Attach supporting evidence from your GP or consultant
What If Your Claim Is Refused?
About 1 in 3 applications are initially rejected. If that happens:
- Request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month
- If still rejected, appeal to a Social Security and Child Support Tribunal
- Seek advice from a welfare rights advisor or Turn2Us
Will It Affect Other Benefits?
No – Attendance Allowance is not taxable and won’t reduce your other benefits. In fact, receiving it can increase your entitlement to:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
If someone cares for you 35+ hours per week, they may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance once you receive Attendance Allowance.
Latest Figures & Statistics (2024)
According to the latest DWP figures:
- Over 1.5 million people in the UK receive Attendance Allowance
- 63% of new claimants are over 75 years old
- Most common conditions include arthritis, dementia, and breathing disorders
Where to Get Help
- Citizens Advice: Free help with applications – citizensadvice.org.uk
- Age UK: Support for older people – ageuk.org.uk
- Independent Age: Practical guides and advice – independentage.org
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply online?
A: Not yet. The form must be printed and posted, although you can download it online.
Q: Do I need a diagnosis to apply?
A: No, but medical evidence strengthens your case.
Q: Can I get help filling out the form?
A: Yes – charities like Age UK, Citizens Advice, and Independent Age offer free support.
Q: Will I be reassessed?
A: Yes, especially if you’re awarded it for a fixed period or your condition changes.
