The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that the attendance allowance, a non-means-tested benefit for people aged 66 and over with disabilities or serious health conditions, will rise by 3.5% next year. The new rates will take effect from 12 April 2027, with the lower weekly rate increasing to £79.38.
New rates and eligibility
Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates depending on the level of care needed. Currently, recipients receive either £76.70 or £114.60 a week, which amounts to £3,988.40 or £5,959.20 annually. The benefit is not subject to a means test.
After applying the 3.5% increase, the new weekly rates will be £79.38 (or £4,127.76 a year) and £118.61 (or £6,167.72 a year). The DWP has not yet confirmed the full new figures.
Government statement on benefit increases
In a statement to Parliament, Pat McFadden, Work and Pensions Secretary of State, confirmed that the new rates will apply in the tax year 2027-28 and will mainly come into effect from 12 April 2027.
McFadden also announced that the basic and full rate of the new state pensions will increase by 3.9%, in line with average weekly earnings growth in the year to May-July 2026. This delivers on the triple lock commitment to increase rates in line with the highest of price growth, earnings growth, or 2.5%.
Other benefit changes
From April, the full annual rate of the new state pension will increase by around £490, and the full annual rate of the basic state pension will rise by around £375. The standard minimum guarantee in pension credit will also increase by 3.9%, reaching £247.30 a week for a single pensioner and £377.40 a week for a couple.
Most working-age benefits, disability benefits, statutory payments including sick pay and maternity pay, and additional state pension will rise by 3.5%, in line with the consumer prices index for the year to September 2026. The pension credit savings credit maximum amount will also increase by 3.5%.
