Pensioners with health conditions could be entitled to over £110 per week through Attendance Allowance, even without an official diagnosis, according to the Department for Work and Pensions. The benefit, which currently supports nearly 1.8 million people, is based on how a condition affects daily life rather than the condition itself.
Attendance Allowance provides £73.90 per week (lower rate) for those needing help during day or night, and £110.40 (higher rate) for round-the-clock support. From April, these rates will rise to £76.70 and £114.60 respectively, offering nearly £6,000 annually for higher-rate recipients.
Citizens Advice confirms that a formal diagnosis is not required. Eligibility depends on needing help or supervision for at least six months due to a physical or mental condition. The benefit is not means-tested, so savings or income do not affect entitlement.
Claimants must be over state pension age, live in Great Britain, and be habitually resident in the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man, or Channel Islands. Those in Scotland should apply for Pension Age Disability Payment instead. The benefit can be used for any purpose, including equipment or care to maintain independence.
