£5,644 DWP Financial Help – If you’re over State Pension age and dealing with a disability or long-term health condition, you might be missing out on up to £5,644 a year in government support. That’s right — the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers a benefit called Attendance Allowance, and thousands of eligible people never apply.
This guide explains everything you need to know: who qualifies, how much you can get, how to apply, and what to do if your claim is denied. We’ve also included tips to make your application easier and more likely to succeed.
£5,644 DWP Financial Help
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Attendance Allowance |
| 2024/25 Max Amount | Up to £108.55 per week / £5,644.60 annually |
| Who Is It For? | People over State Pension age (66+) needing help with personal care |
| Is It Means-Tested? | No – not affected by savings or income |
| Application Method | Paper form (download or request by phone) |
| Backdating | Up to the date of your call if requested by phone |
| Official Site | gov.uk/attendance-allowance |
| DWP Helpline | 0800 731 0122 |
If you’re aged 66 or older and need help with daily living because of a health condition, Attendance Allowance could provide up to £5,644 a year. It’s not means-tested, not taxed, and could also open the door to other benefits.
Many eligible people never apply because they assume they won’t qualify or find the process confusing. But with the right support and guidance, you could unlock essential financial help that makes life easier and safer.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision due to a disability or long-term condition.
It’s not based on your income or savings, and you don’t need to have a carer. You just need to show that your condition affects your daily life.
Whether it’s getting dressed, remembering medication, or needing supervision at night, this benefit is here to help.
How Much Can You Get?
For the tax year 2024/25, the DWP pays:
- Lower rate: £72.65 per week – for help needed during either day or night
- Higher rate: £108.55 per week – for help needed day and night, or if terminally ill
That’s up to £5,644.60 a year, paid every four weeks directly into your bank account.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify if all of the following apply:
You’re Over State Pension Age
Currently 66 or older in the UK.
You Have a Physical or Mental Disability
Examples include:
- Arthritis
- Parkinson’s
- Dementia
- Diabetes complications
- Vision or hearing loss
- Respiratory issues
- Cognitive impairments
You must need help with personal tasks (not just mobility), like:
- Washing or dressing
- Taking medications correctly
- Staying safe from falls or confusion
- Cooking or eating
You’ve Needed Help for at Least 6 Months
Unless you’re terminally ill, in which case Special Rules apply (fast-tracked application).
You’re a UK Resident
You must normally live in the UK and have lived here for at least 2 of the past 3 years.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Get the Application Form
- Call 0800 731 0122 to request a form – this also backdates your claim
- Or download the AA1 form from gov.uk
Step 2: Fill In the Form
This is where most people struggle. Take your time. Be honest, specific, and realistic.
Tips:
- Use real examples: “I need help washing because I can’t lift my arms.”
- Don’t downplay symptoms
- Include medical evidence like a GP letter (optional but helpful)
You can get help from Citizens Advice, Age UK, or a local welfare advisor to complete it.
Step 3: Post the Form
Send it (no stamp needed) to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance
That’s the full address — no postcode required.
What Happens Next?
- You’ll receive an acknowledgment letter.
- The DWP might ask for more information or send a medical professional to visit (rare).
- If successful, payments are backdated to the date of your phone request or form submission.
Real-Life Example
Margaret, 78, from Leeds, suffers from arthritis and early-stage dementia. She needs help dressing, preparing meals, and remembering medications. After a friend told her about Attendance Allowance, she applied and now receives £108.55 per week.
“It’s made a huge difference,” she says. “I was able to afford a part-time carer and some safety equipment at home.”
What If Your Application Is Rejected?
Don’t give up. Many valid claims are initially denied because the form wasn’t detailed enough.
You can:
- Request a mandatory reconsideration within 1 month of the decision
- Appeal to a tribunal if you’re still refused
Get help from:
- Citizens Advice
- Turn2Us
- Age UK
Other Benefits Linked to Attendance Allowance
Receiving Attendance Allowance could help you qualify for or increase other benefits:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
- Carer’s Allowance (if someone looks after you)
Ask your local council or contact a welfare benefits adviser to explore your full entitlements.
Important 2025 Update
The DWP has confirmed that benefit rates will rise in April 2025 in line with inflation. While the exact increase isn’t yet published, it could push the higher rate of Attendance Allowance to over £110 per week.
Check the official DWP rates page for updates.
£780 Financial Support from DWP – Check Eligibility Criteria & When You’ll Get It!
Nine Major DWP and Financial Policy Shifts Arriving in March 2025
DWP Confirms £1,200 Bonus for Universal Credit Claimants – Check Payment Date & Eligibility
FAQs About £5,644 DWP Financial Help
Is there an online application for Attendance Allowance?
You can download the form online, but it must be posted. No online submission is available yet.
Can I get this benefit if I live in a care home?
Yes, but only if you pay for your own care.
Does having a carer affect eligibility?
No – you don’t need to have a carer. If you do, they may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance.
Will this reduce my other benefits?
No – it could actually increase them.
Do I have to pay tax on this?
No – Attendance Allowance is 100% tax-free.
