State pensioners receiving Attendance Allowance could see their Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) payments rise by £151.60 every four weeks if their health has deteriorated. The benefit supports individuals over state pension age who need help due to a disability or long-term health condition, with payments made at two rates depending on care needs.
Higher Rate Eligibility
Those currently on the lower rate whose circumstances have worsened since their initial award may qualify for the enhanced payment. Successfully moving to the higher rate would increase four-weekly payments from £306.80 to £458.40. The extra financial help is designed to assist older people in maintaining independence and living in their own homes for longer.
Claim Criteria
Attendance Allowance can be claimed if you meet these conditions: you are over State Pension age (otherwise consider Personal Independence Payment); you have a disability or physical/mental illness, including sight or hearing impairments and conditions like dementia; you need help with personal care, such as washing or dressing, or supervision for safety during the day or night; and you have needed help for at least 6 months, unless terminally ill, in which case claims can be made immediately.
2026 Rates
In 2026, the lower rate is £76.70 per week for those needing supervision or personal care either during the day or at night. The higher rate is £114.60 per week for those needing help both day and night, or for individuals given a prognosis of 12 months or less to live by a medical professional. The difference between the two rates amounts to £151.60 every four weeks. Attendance Allowance is available to those who have reached state pension age, currently 66, rising to 67 by 2028.
Underclaimed Benefit
Martin Lewis highlighted in a Money Saving Expert newsletter: "For many older people who are ill or start to face mental or physical disability, life doesn't just get tougher, it gets costlier too. Add to that the fact people's conditions can make it more difficult to spend the time and energy needed to research possible help." He added: "Yet it still remains massively underclaimed, with potentially a million eligible pensioners missing out." The benefit is not means-tested, so savings and income do not affect eligibility.
How to Claim
To claim, you must complete the Attendance Allowance claim form. You can call the helpline on 0800 731 0122 or download the form from GOV.UK.
