Nearly 1.7 million pensioners across Great Britain are now receiving Attendance Allowance, a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit for people over 66. However, claimants must report certain changes in circumstances immediately or risk having their payments of up to £458 a month reduced, stopped, or even face a penalty.
DWP Warning on Reporting Changes
Guidance from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) makes it clear that failing to report a change could lead to overpayments, fines, or prosecution. Even temporary changes, such as a stay in hospital, can affect entitlement. Attendance Allowance is paid by the DWP to help pensioners with extra costs caused by disability, long-term illness, or physical or mental health conditions. Following the annual uprating in April, payments are now worth either £76.70 a week for the lower rate or £114.60 for the higher rate.
Who Is Affected by These Rules?
Attendance Allowance is no longer available to claimants with a Scottish postcode, who now receive Pension Age Disability Payment from Social Security Scotland. Both benefits are paid at the same rate and follow similar eligibility criteria. DWP rules state claimants must contact the Attendance Allowance helpline as soon as possible if their condition changes, they need more or less help, or their personal circumstances alter in a way that could affect their claim.
What Changes Must Be Reported?
If your circumstances change, your Attendance Allowance payments could increase, decrease, or stop altogether. You must contact the Attendance Allowance helpline straight away if:
- The level of help you need changes or your condition worsens or improves
- You go into hospital or move into a care home (you’ll need the address, dates, and details of how the stay is funded)
- A medical professional has said you may have 12 months or less to live
- You plan to leave the UK for more than four weeks
- You go into prison
- You change your name, address, or bank details
- You want to stop your claim
- Your doctor changes
- Your immigration status changes
Penalties for Non-Reporting
DWP guidance on GOV.UK also warns: “You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances.” If you are unsure whether something counts as a change, it is safer to contact the DWP and check rather than risk an overpayment or suspended claim.
Reporting a Change if You Need More Help
You should also contact the DWP if you now need more help because of a disability or illness—even if you are not currently receiving that help. This includes needing help with personal care such as dressing, eating, getting in and out of bed, bathing, or using the toilet, as well as supervision to stay safe during the day or at night. You should report a change if tasks are taking much longer, causing pain, or you need physical support such as something to lean on.
Attendance Allowance and Mental Health
Attendance Allowance is not limited to physical conditions. You may also qualify for a higher rate if you need more help due to a mental health condition, learning difficulties, or a sensory condition such as being deaf or blind. The Attendance Allowance helpline is 0800 731 0122 and is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
