Attendance Allowance

This is a benefit for disabled people aged 65 or over, who find it difficult to care for themselves because of a disability or long term health problem. If you are under 65, you should claim Disability Living Allowance.

You can get Attendance Allowance if you find things like dressing and washing very difficult, if you need someone to make sure that you are safe, or you have a terminal illness.

The benefit is paid at one of two rates:

• The lower rate is for people who have difficulties either during the day or at night
• The higher rate is for people who have difficulties both during the day and at night

Who can claim?

To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must

• be aged 65 or over
• have had the disability or health problems you describe for at least six months (unless you have a terminal illness, when the benefit is paid immediately)
• satisfy one of the disability conditions i.e. for either higher or lower rate
• satisfy residence and prescence conditions 

Your income and savings will not affect your claim for Attendance Allowance.

Getting Attendance Allowance can also mean you receive extra Pension Credit , Housing Benefit, and Council Tax Benefit.

If the person you care for gets either rate of Attendance Allowance, you may qualify for Carer's Allowance.

How to claim

For more information or to request a claim pack, please call the DWP's benefits enquiry line on 0800 88 22 00 and ask for the form AA1. You can also claim online at www.direct.gov.uk/disability