The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that pensioners born before 1959 who have a disability or health condition may be eligible to receive up to £5,600 a year through Attendance Allowance.
This non-means-tested benefit is designed to help older individuals who need assistance with personal care but are not living in a residential care facility. With an updated application process now offering online submissions alongside postal and phone applications, claiming this benefit has become easier than ever.
Quick Summary: DWP £5,600 Allowance 2025
Detail |
Information |
|---|---|
Benefit Name |
Attendance Allowance |
Maximum Annual Benefit |
£5,644.60 |
Eligibility Age |
Born before 1959 |
Benefit Type |
Non-means-tested |
Payment Frequency |
Every 4 weeks |
Application Methods |
Online, Post, Phone |
DWP Helpline |
0800 731 0122 |
Official Link |
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit provided by the DWP to support older people with physical or mental health conditions that require help with personal care.
Key Features:
- Does not depend on income or savings.
- Can be claimed even if no one is currently caring for you.
- Available to individuals living independently at home.
- Paid directly into your bank account every four weeks.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Attendance Allowance in 2025, you must:
- Have been born before 1959.
- Have a disability or health condition that impacts your daily life.
- Require help or supervision with personal care during the day, night, or both.
- Be living at home (not in a care home funded by the local authority).
How Much Can You Get?
Rate Type |
Support Requirement |
Weekly Amount |
Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
Lower Rate |
Help during either day or night |
£72.65 |
£3,777.80 |
Higher Rate |
Help during both day and night |
£108.55 |
£5,644.60 |
Example:
Most higher-rate recipients will receive around £434 every 4 weeks, which totals approximately £5,600 a year.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
The DWP offers three application methods:
1. Apply Online
- A limited number of applications are accepted weekly.
- Provides a faster processing time compared to post.
- Apply here: Apply for Attendance Allowance – GOV.UK
2. Apply by Post
- Download and print the form from GOV.UK or request a form by phone.
- Send to: Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance (no stamp or postcode required).
3. Apply by Phone
- Call the Attendance Allowance helpline to request a form:
- Telephone: 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Relay UK: 18001 0800 731 0122
- For BSL users: Use the video relay service.
Information Needed for Your Application
Have the following details ready:
- National Insurance number.
- Full contact details.
- Description of your health condition and its impact on daily life.
- Contact details for your GP or healthcare provider.
- Details of any recent hospital or care home stays.
Who Must Apply by Post Only?
Certain applicants cannot use the online form:
- Individuals applying on behalf of someone else.
- Those with Power of Attorney or acting as a legal representative.
This ensures the DWP maintains compliance with data privacy and safeguarding rules.
When Will Payments Start?
- Online applications – Payments can start from the submission date.
- Postal applications – Payments start from the date the DWP receives the form.
Advantages of Attendance Allowance
- Helps cover additional care costs.
- May increase eligibility for other benefits (e.g., Pension Credit, Housing Benefit).
- Offers financial security for independent living.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who can claim the £5,600 Attendance Allowance?
A: Pensioners born before 1959 with a disability or health condition requiring personal care support.
Q2: Is Attendance Allowance means-tested?
A: No. Your income and savings do not affect eligibility.
Q3: Can I claim if I live alone?
A: Yes, you do not need a live-in carer to qualify.
Q4: How long does it take to process a claim?
A: Processing times vary but can take several weeks, depending on the method used.
Q5: Can I apply if I already receive another disability benefit?
A: It depends—some benefits may affect eligibility, so check with the DWP.
Conclusion
The DWP’s Attendance Allowance offers vital financial support—up to £5,644.60 annually—for pensioners born before 1959 who require daily care. With three application methods now available, claiming this benefit is more accessible than ever.
Pensioners and their families should review the eligibility criteria carefully, prepare the necessary documents, and apply as soon as possible to avoid delays in receiving payments.
For full details and to apply, visit: Apply for Attendance Allowance – GOV.UK.
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