Attendance Allowance

Before claiming Attendance Allowance the following must apply:

  • You have a long term physical or mental illness or disability.
  • You have needed help with your personal care (for example
    washing and dressing), or supervision to keep you safe, for at least
    6 months before claiming
  • You are over state pension age
    Essentially support must be needed with:
  • Personal Care Your need for help with personal care is a direct eligibility criterion. This includes assistance with tasks like:
    o Washing and bathing
    o Dressing and undressing
    o Using the toilet
    o Getting in and out of bed or a chair
  • Medication The need for someone to help you take your medication or manage treatment is a valid care need for which you can claim Attendance Allowance. Includes those that receive a blister pack
  • Foods and Fluids Similarly, needing help with eating, drinking, or preparing meals is considered a care need.

Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. It is a tax-free benefit for people over State Pension age, based solely on care or supervision
needs due to a disability or illness, regardless of income or savings. It does not affect other benefits, and can sometimes lead to increased
payments for other benefits like Pension Credit.

If ALL of the above apply then do the following:

Request form by phoning 0800 731 0122. Witterings Community Forum can call for the form or the individual.

Documentation required to support AA Application:

  • National Insurance Number
  • Bank details, account number and sort-code
  • Copy of prescription
  • GP details
  • Copies of health correspondence e.g:
    Hospital letters
    Request patient summary from GP

For the 2025/26 tax year (starting April 2025), Attendance Allowance is paid at two weekly rates depending on the level of care needed:

  • Lower Rate: £73.90 per week (for help during the day or night).
  • Higher Rate: £110.40 per week (for help during the day and night, or if terminally ill.