Great news for older UK residents—the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed an annual £5,600 payment available through Attendance Allowance for pensioners born before 1959. This non-means-tested benefit helps people who need care due to physical or mental health conditions, regardless of their income or savings.
Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, how much you could get, and how to apply.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit paid to State Pension age individuals who need help with personal care due to illness, disability, or mobility challenges. Unlike other benefits, your income and savings won’t affect your eligibility, making it accessible to many pensioners who live independently but require extra support.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the £5,600 annual payment, you must meet the following criteria:
- Born before 6 April 1959
- Have a physical or mental disability requiring care or supervision
- Require help during the day or night (or both)
- Do not live in a local authority-funded care home
This benefit is ideal for people managing chronic illnesses, dementia, mobility issues, or other long-term health conditions that limit day-to-day activities.
How Much Could You Receive?
The DWP offers Attendance Allowance at two rates, depending on your care needs:
| Care Level | Weekly Rate | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £3,842.80 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £5,740.80 |
If you need help both day and night, you’ll qualify for the higher rate, which totals over £5,600 annually.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
There are three ways to apply:
1. Online Application (limited slots weekly)
- Available through the GOV.UK website
- Not suitable for Power of Attorney claims or third-party applications
2. By Post
- Download the form from GOV.UK
- Or request a form via the DWP helpline
3. By Phone
- Call 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Relay UK: 18001 0800 731 0122
Once completed, send the form to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance (no postcode or stamp required)
What You Need to Apply
Make sure to provide:
- National Insurance Number
- Contact details and home address
- Details of your health condition and its impact
- Your GP’s contact info
- Hospital or care-related details, if applicable
After applying, you should hear back from DWP within 3 weeks. If approved, you’ll receive a confirmation letter with the payment amount and start date.
Tax and Benefit Impact
Attendance Allowance is completely tax-free, and it won’t reduce your entitlement to other benefits. In fact, it might increase eligibility for other support such as:
- Pension Credit
- Council Tax Reduction
- Housing Benefit
The DWP’s £5,600 Attendance Allowance is a lifeline for pensioners born before 1959 who need care due to health conditions. It’s a non-means-tested, tax-free payment designed to support you in maintaining your independence and dignity.
If you or a loved one meets the eligibility criteria, apply today and access the support you deserve.
FAQs
What is the £5,600 DWP annual payment?
It’s the Attendance Allowance offered to eligible pensioners needing care, worth up to £5,600 annually at the higher rate.
Is Attendance Allowance affected by income or savings?
No, it’s not means-tested, so your financial status won’t impact eligibility.
How long does it take to get a decision after applying?
You’ll typically receive a response from the DWP within three weeks of submitting your application.
