£5,644 DWP Benefits Available – Are You Entitled to It? Check and Apply Now

On: Wednesday, April 16, 2025 7:15 AM

£5,644 DWP Benefits Available – Are You Entitled to It? Check and Apply Now

As we grow older, health problems or mental stress can make everyday life difficult. Sometimes, we may need help even with basic daily activities. To support people in such situations, the UK government offers a benefit called Attendance Allowance.

This scheme is for people aged 66 or older who need care or supervision due to physical or mental conditions. It provides financial support of up to £5,644 annually, and the best part is—it’s not based on your income or savings.

In this article, you’ll learn:

What is Attendance Allowance?
Who is eligible?
How much can you get?
How to apply?
Other key details and FAQs

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a tax-free government benefit provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It is designed to help elderly individuals who need care or supervision due to physical or mental conditions.

Note: You do not need to have a carer to claim this benefit. It is awarded based on your need for help, not whether you are receiving help.

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Who is Eligible?

You may be eligible for Attendance Allowance if:

You are 66 years or older (State Pension age or above).
You have a physical or mental condition such as arthritis, diabetes, dementia, depression, post-stroke effects, sight or hearing issues, etc.
You have needed care or supervision for at least 6 months.
You live in the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man and are not under immigration control.
You are not already receiving DLA, PIP, or ADP.

How Much Can You Get?

There are two payment rates for Attendance Allowance:

Rate	Amount per Week	Estimated Annual Total
Lower Rate	£72.65	About £3,778
Higher Rate	£108.55	About £5,644

Lower rate: If you need help either during the day or night.
Higher rate: If you need help both day and night, or you are terminally ill and over State Pension age.

How to Apply?

You can apply for Attendance Allowance in the following steps:

1. Get the Claim Form

By phone: Call 0800 731 0122 to request the form. If you return the form within 6 weeks, your claim will be backdated to the date of your call.
Online: Download the form from the GOV.UK website.

2. Fill in the Form

Personal details: Name, address, NI number, contact info.
Health details: Describe how your illness affects daily tasks like dressing, walking, bathing, eating, etc.
Attach evidence: Include doctor’s reports, prescription lists, letters from healthcare providers, etc.

3. Send the Form

Post the completed form and documents to the address provided on the form. Keep a copy for your own records.

4. Wait for Processing

The DWP usually takes 6 to 8 weeks to make a decision. If approved, the payments will be backdated to the date of your claim or the day you requested the form.

Impact on Other Benefits

Receiving Attendance Allowance does not reduce your other benefits. In fact, it can increase your entitlement to:

Pension Credit
Housing Benefit
Council Tax Reduction

Good to know: Attendance Allowance is non-means-tested, meaning it doesn’t depend on your income or savings.

Special Situations

If You’re Seriously Ill

If your doctor says you are unlikely to live more than 12 months, you can apply under Special Rules. This will qualify you for the higher rate more quickly. A doctor must complete an SR1 form.

If You Live in a Care Home

If your care is fully paid by the local authority, you cannot claim this benefit.
If you are self-funding your care, you can still claim Attendance Allowance.

For Scotland Residents

If you live in Scotland, Attendance Allowance is being replaced by Pension Age Disability Payment. You will need to apply under that scheme.

Common Myths and Misunderstandings

“I don’t have a carer, so I can’t get the benefit.” – False. It’s based on your need, not on whether someone is helping you.
“It’s only for physical illnesses.” – Wrong. Mental health conditions like dementia and depression are also covered.
“It will reduce my other benefits.” – Not true. It is tax-free and doesn’t affect other benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do savings or income affect this benefit?
A: No. It’s a non-means-tested benefit.
Q: How long does it take to process?
A: Usually 6–8 weeks. Claims under Special Rules are faster.
Q: Can I get PIP and Attendance Allowance at the same time?
A: No. PIP is for people below State Pension Age. Attendance Allowance is for those 66+.
Q: Is a medical examination required?
A: Not usually. But DWP might request a report if needed.
Q: Is it available for mental health issues?
A: Yes. Conditions like anxiety, depression, or dementia are eligible.
Q: How is the money paid?
A: Payments are made every four weeks directly into your bank account.

Conclusion

Attendance Allowance is more than just financial support—it is a recognition of the challenges elderly people face. It offers dignity and independence to those managing health conditions daily.

If you or someone you know meets the criteria, don’t delay. Apply today and claim the support you deserve.