Money-saving expert Martin Lewis has highlighted that around one million pensioners are missing out on Attendance Allowance, a non-means tested benefit worth up to £5,644 per year. The benefit, administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), is available to people aged 66 and over who have a disability or serious health condition requiring regular help.
Attendance Allowance offers two payment tiers: a lower rate of £73.90 per week (£3,842.80 annually) and a higher rate of £110.40 per week (£5,644 annually). It is not means-tested, meaning eligibility does not depend on income or savings. According to figures from Policy in Practice, approximately 1.1 million eligible pensioners are not claiming the benefit.
In his Money Saving Expert newsletter, Mr Lewis said: '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.' He urged pensioners to apply even if they think they only qualify for the lower rate, as it still totals £3,777.80 annually. He added that while the DWP states the benefit is intended for care costs, recipients can use the money however they wish.
Common conditions that may qualify include arthritis, sight problems, heart conditions, Parkinson's disease, and breathing difficulties such as asthma. To be eligible, applicants must have reached state pension age (currently 66) and have needed help for at least six months. The application forms are complex, but organisations like Citizens Advice and Age UK offer guidance.
One MSE reader, Dawn, shared her success story: after claiming Attendance Allowance for both parents, they received over £20,000 per year in total benefits, including Housing Benefit, Council Tax reduction, and a free TV licence. Mr Lewis encouraged pensioners to apply, saying: 'If you think you're entitled to attendance allowance, you should push through.'
