
Claim £5,644 from DWP: If you’re aged 66 or over and struggling with a physical or mental health condition that requires daily support, you could be entitled to claim up to £5,644 per year through the UK Government’s Attendance Allowance scheme. This benefit offers financial help for older citizens who need assistance with personal care, allowing them to maintain independence and dignity without worrying about the cost of extra help. Attendance Allowance is not well-known, and many eligible people don’t claim it. But with online applications now open, there’s never been a better time to check if you qualify—and this guide will walk you through the process.
Claim £5,644 from DWP
Claiming up to £5,644 per year from the DWP through Attendance Allowance can be a life-changing benefit for older UK citizens living with illness or disability. Whether you need help during the day, night, or both, the scheme is designed to provide the support you deserve without means-testing or tax implications. With online claim forms now available and a simple phone process to get started, there’s no reason to delay. If you or a loved one may qualify, take the first step today — you could be missing out on thousands in unclaimed support.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Who Can Claim | UK citizens aged 66+ needing daily assistance due to illness/disability |
Benefit Amount | £72.65 (lower rate) or £108.55 (higher rate) weekly — up to £5,644/year |
Means-Tested? | No — your income and savings do not affect eligibility |
How to Apply | By phone (0800 731 0122) or download the form at GOV.UK Attendance Allowance |
Other Benefits Affected? | May increase your entitlement to Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, etc. |
Backdated Payments? | Yes — usually from the date the claim form was requested |
Medical Assessment Required? | Sometimes — based on application details |
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-taxable, non-means-tested benefit paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to people over State Pension age who need help due to illness or disability. It’s not limited to physical conditions—you can also qualify if you have a mental health condition, such as dementia, anxiety, or learning disabilities, that affects your daily safety and independence.
Whether you receive care from a friend, family member, or no one at all, you may still be eligible for this benefit. The key factor is the help you need, not what you actually receive.
Who Qualifies for Attendance Allowance?
To be eligible for Attendance Allowance, you must meet the following conditions:
Age and Residence
- Be aged 66 or over
- Be habitually resident in the UK
- Not be subject to immigration control
Health and Care Needs
- Have a physical or mental disability that affects your ability to care for yourself or remain safe
- Need help with activities such as:
- Getting in or out of bed
- Dressing or undressing
- Eating, washing, or using the toilet
- Taking medication properly
- Being supervised to prevent harm
- Have needed help for at least six months (unless you’re terminally ill)
How Much Can You Claim?
The amount you get depends on the level of help you need:
Lower Rate – £72.65/week
You qualify if you need help either during the day or night.
Higher Rate – £108.55/week
You qualify if you need help both day and night, or you are terminally ill.
That adds up to a potential £5,644.60 annually for higher-rate recipients.
Note: These rates are accurate as of April 2024 and typically increase annually.
How to Claim £5,644 from DWP– Step-by-Step Guide
Applying is straightforward, and you have two main options:
Step 1: Get the Form
- Call 0800 731 0122 to request a claim form. This is the best option because your claim will be backdated to the date you called.
- Or download the form online at the official Attendance Allowance page
Step 2: Fill Out the Form
This is the most important part of the process. Be honest and detailed about how your condition affects you.
Tips for completing the form:
- Use real examples of how long tasks take or how often you need help.
- Describe what happens on bad days, not just your best days.
- Don’t downplay your needs — it’s okay to say if something is difficult or embarrassing.
- Include supporting documents like GP letters, hospital notes, or medication lists.
Step 3: Submit the Form
Send your completed form to the address provided in the form’s guidance notes. Keep a copy for your records.
You’ll usually get a decision within 6-8 weeks. If the DWP needs more information, they may contact you or arrange a medical assessment.
What If You’re Terminally Ill?
If your doctor believes you have 12 months or less to live, you can apply under the Special Rules for End of Life. This fast-tracks your application and usually means you automatically qualify for the higher rate.
Your doctor or healthcare provider will need to complete a form called SR1 to support your claim.
Can Attendance Allowance Affect Other Benefits?
Yes — in a good way. Receiving Attendance Allowance can make you eligible for or increase the amount of:
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
- Carer’s Allowance (if someone looks after you for at least 35 hours per week)
Attendance Allowance does not reduce your other benefits, and it’s not counted as income for tax purposes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Understating your needs: Be open about what support you really require.
- Not applying because you don’t have a carer: You don’t need to have someone helping you — it’s about the help you need, not receive.
- Thinking mental health doesn’t count: Conditions like dementia, anxiety, or depression can qualify.
- Throwing out the form: If it looks long or complicated, get help from Citizens Advice, Age UK, or your local benefits adviser.
Real-Life Example
Margaret, age 75, has arthritis and struggles to move around her home. She doesn’t currently have a carer but often finds it difficult to cook, bathe, or manage stairs safely. After applying for Attendance Allowance and describing her challenges honestly, she was awarded the lower rate and later became eligible for Pension Credit top-up and Council Tax Reduction, significantly improving her financial wellbeing.
Eligible UK Residents to Get Extra £578.82 in Universal Credit – Are You One of Them?
DWP’s Shocking Proposal: Replacing PIP Payments with Vouchers – What It Means for You
DWP to Reform Majority of PIP Payments Within 2 Years – What You Need to Know!
Frequently Asked Questions About Claim £5,644 from DWP
Can I apply for Attendance Allowance online?
No, you can download the form online but must complete and return it by post.
How long do I need to have had my condition?
You must have had care needs for at least 6 months, unless applying under Special Rules for terminal illness.
Will I need a face-to-face assessment?
In most cases, no. The DWP usually makes a decision based on the form and supporting evidence.
Can someone help me with the form?
Yes, organizations like Citizens Advice and Age UK can assist you.
Is Attendance Allowance taxable?
No, it’s completely tax-free and does not affect your savings or income.