The UK government continues to support sick and disabled citizens with a financial lifeline known as the DWP Attendance Allowance. This benefit, managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), provides non-taxable weekly payments to those who need personal care due to long-term illness or disability. Here’s everything you need to know about the payment amounts, eligibility, and how to apply in 2025.
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Overview
Attendance Allowance is designed to help people who are of State Pension age and suffer from physical or mental disabilities. It covers assistance with daily activities like eating, dressing, or moving around. Importantly, it’s not based on income or savings — so it won’t be affected by how much money you have in the bank.
What makes it even more helpful is that it can be claimed alongside other benefits like Council Tax Reduction, giving claimants extra support during difficult times.
Amounts
In 2025, the Attendance Allowance is available at two different weekly rates depending on the level of help needed:
| Care Level | Weekly Payment (2025-26) |
|---|---|
| Higher Rate | €110.40 |
| Lower Rate | €73.90 |
You may qualify for the higher rate if you require help during both day and night or if you are terminally ill. The lower rate is for those who need assistance only during the day or night.
Benefits
The DWP Attendance Allowance offers practical support for people who:
- Struggle with mobility
- Need help getting dressed or bathed
- Require assistance with meals or medications
- Have trouble with basic daily activities like getting in and out of bed
- Experience issues with communication or cognitive functions
The presence of a caregiver or someone to help can significantly ease the life of a disabled or sick person, and this benefit ensures financial support to fund that care.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Attendance Allowance in 2025, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Must be a UK citizen and reside in the UK
- Must be State Pension age or older
- Must need care or supervision due to a disability or long-term illness
- Must not be dependent on parents if aged 16 or over
- For deaf applicants, British Sign Language fluency is required for carers
- Immigration status must not be temporary — long-term residents only
This benefit does not cover mobility needs or transportation but focuses on personal care.
Apply
Applications can be submitted any time during the year, and separate forms are available based on your location:
For England and Wales:
- Website: gov.uk Attendance Allowance
- Phone: 0800 731 0122
For Northern Ireland:
- Website: nidirect.gov.uk Attendance Form
- Phone: 0800 578 0912
How To Apply
Follow these steps to apply for Attendance Allowance in 2025:
- Visit the official website for your location (listed above)
- Download or order the claim form
- Fill in all personal and medical details accurately
- Attach relevant medical documents and evidence of care needs
- Submit the completed form online or by post
This process is simple and can be done by the applicant or someone applying on their behalf.