Nearly 1.7 million State Pensioners in England and Wales currently receive Attendance Allowance, worth either £76.70 or £114.60 per week. In Scotland, over 185,800 people receive the equivalent Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP). Both are tax-free, non-means-tested benefits paid every four weeks, amounting to £306.80 or £458.40 per payment period.
How to Increase Payments
Those on the lower rate of £76.70 per week could see their payments rise to £114.60 per week if their condition has worsened or they now require help both day and night. This would mean an increase of £151.60 per month, from £306.80 to £458.40 every four weeks. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) advises reporting any change in circumstances, as failing to do so could mean missing out on higher payments.
According to DWP guidance, changes that should be reported include: needing more help with personal care, supervision to stay safe, or experiencing more difficulties completing tasks. This applies to physical conditions as well as mental health conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory impairments.
Common Conditions and Support
The most common condition claimed on Attendance Allowance is arthritis, with 512,300 people receiving support for it. However, nearly 50 conditions are supported, including heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and terminal illness. If a new condition has developed or an existing one has worsened, claimants should contact the DWP.
To report a change, call the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122, Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm. In Scotland, call Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222 for PADP changes. Full guidance is available on GOV.UK and mygov.scot.
Key Facts About Attendance Allowance
- Not means-tested – savings and income do not affect eligibility.
- Tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap.
- Does not affect State Pension.
- Can be claimed even while working.
- May increase other benefits like Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Reduction.
Pension Age Disability Payment in Scotland
PADP has replaced Attendance Allowance for all claimants with a Scottish postcode. Eligibility requires reaching State Pension age and having care needs for at least 6 months. A fast-track process exists for terminally ill applicants. Claimants cannot receive both benefits simultaneously.
