DWP’s New Scheme Could Give You £434 More Monthly – If you’re over State Pension age and living with a health condition or disability, you could be missing out on up to £434.20 every month from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This payment, called Attendance Allowance, is meant to help older adults who need help with daily activities—even if they don’t currently receive that help.
Yet, according to Age UK, over 3.4 million people in the UK are eligible for Attendance Allowance—but more than half never claim it. Many either don’t know it exists, believe they’re not eligible, or find the application process too overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this friendly yet expert guide to help you understand if you can claim, how to apply, and what else you might be entitled to.
DWP’s New Scheme Could Give You £434 More Monthly
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Attendance Allowance |
| Maximum Monthly Payment | £434.20 (Higher Rate) |
| Eligibility | Over State Pension age with care/supervision needs |
| Not Means-Tested | Yes – your income and savings don’t affect it |
| Other Benefits It Can Unlock | Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction |
| State Pension Age (2025) | 66 (Check yours here) |
| Official Website | GOV.UK – Attendance Allowance |
Attendance Allowance is a lifeline for millions of older people—and if you or someone you know struggles with daily tasks due to a long-term condition, you could be eligible for up to £434 a month, tax-free.
Claiming isn’t just about the money—it’s about living safely and independently. Plus, it opens the door to even more support, like Pension Credit and Council Tax discounts.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit for people who:
- Are 66 or older
- Have a disability, long-term illness, or mental health condition
- Need help with personal care or supervision
You don’t need to have a formal diagnosis, and you don’t need a carer to qualify. What matters is how your condition affects your daily life.
Example: If you find it difficult to wash, dress, take medication, or stay safe alone, you may be eligible—even if no one is currently helping you.
How Much Can You Get?
There are two payment levels:
| Rate | Weekly | Monthly (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £72.65 | £290.60 |
| Higher Rate | £108.55 | £434.20 |
You’ll receive the lower rate if you need help during the day or night.
You’ll receive the higher rate if you need help day and night, or if you’re terminally ill.
Who Is Eligible?
Over State Pension Age
As of 2025, that’s 66 years old. Use the official checker to confirm yours.
Need Help With Care or Supervision
Common qualifying conditions include:
- Arthritis
- Dementia
- Parkinson’s
- Visual or hearing impairment
- Diabetes (with complications)
- Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or memory loss
Have Needed Help for At Least 6 Months
Unless you’re terminally ill, you must have had these difficulties for at least six months before applying.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance?
Step-by-Step Guide
- Request the Form
- Call 0800 731 0122 for a paper form
- Or download it from GOV.UK
- Fill Out the Form Thoroughly
- Describe how your condition affects you day-to-day
- Be honest about struggles—even if they feel “normal” to you
- Give real examples, like: “I need help getting out of bed” or “I fall at night when I go to the toilet”
- Send the Form
- Use the Freepost address listed in the form
- Keep a copy and post by recorded delivery
Tip: Get help from Citizens Advice, Age UK, or your local council—they often have trained advisers who can help you fill out the form for free.
Did You Know?
According to DWP data, over £1.8 billion in Attendance Allowance goes unclaimed each year—simply because people don’t realise they qualify or are too afraid to apply.
Don’t let this be you or a loved one.
Real-Life Example
Meet George, 77, from Lincolnshire. He suffers from COPD and walks with a frame. His wife helps him shower and ensures he takes his medication.
George didn’t know he qualified until a friend suggested applying. Three months later, he was approved for £108.55/week. That’s £434.20/month—enough to help cover heating, transport to hospital, and a stairlift.
How Attendance Allowance Connects to State Pension?
Your State Pension is based on your National Insurance record. Here’s how they differ:
| Feature | State Pension | Attendance Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Based on Work History | Yes | No |
| Based on Income | No | No |
| Taxable | Yes | No |
| Affects Other Benefits | Sometimes | Often boosts others |
Attendance Allowance does not reduce your State Pension. In fact, it could unlock additional benefits like:
- Pension Credit (income top-up)
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
Claiming Attendance Allowance can even lead to a Severe Disability Premium in some cases, worth £76.40 per week extra.
What’s the Difference Between Attendance Allowance and Other Benefits?
| Benefit | Who It’s For | Age Group |
|---|---|---|
| Attendance Allowance | Help with care for those over State Pension age | 66+ |
| Personal Independence Payment (PIP) | Help with mobility and daily living for working-age adults | 16–64 |
| Carer’s Allowance | For someone who provides 35+ hours of care weekly | All ages (carers) |
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FAQs About DWP’s New Scheme Could Give You £434 More Monthly
Can I apply online for Attendance Allowance?
No. The application is paper-based. You can request or download the form via GOV.UK.
Do I need a formal diagnosis to qualify?
No. You don’t need a diagnosis, but you must show how your condition affects your day-to-day life.
What if my application is denied?
You can ask for a mandatory reconsideration within 1 month of the decision. You can also appeal to a tribunal.
Will it affect my other benefits?
It may increase the amount of benefits you receive. Attendance Allowance itself does not reduce any payments.
Can I claim if I live abroad?
Only if you’re in a country that has a social security agreement with the UK. Check GOV.UK – Retiring Abroad.
