John Hughie
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) currently provides Attendance Allowance to nearly 1.7 million pensioners across Great Britain, offering non-means-tested financial help for those with physical or mental disabilities.
Claimants can receive either £73.90 or £110.40 per week, depending on their care needs. However, if certain rules and changes in circumstances aren’t properly reported, monthly payments may stop.
Let’s explore the critical rules, reporting requirements, and eligibility updates that older people should be aware of in 2025.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit paid to individuals over State Pension age who need help with personal care due to illness or disability. It is not based on income or savings, making it accessible to many pensioners.
Payment Rates (2025):
| Level of Care Needed | Weekly Amount |
|---|---|
| Lower Rate (frequent help needed during day or night) | £73.90 |
| Higher Rate (help needed during day and night, or terminally ill) | £110.40 |
Who Needs to Report Changes?
The DWP requires claimants to report any change in circumstances that could impact their benefit eligibility or payment amount. Failing to do so can lead to penalties, overpayments, or even legal action.
You Must Report If:
- Your condition improves or worsens
- You require more or less frequent assistance
- You go into a hospital or care home
- A medical professional says you may have less than 12 months to live
- You travel abroad for more than 4 weeks
- You go to prison
- You change your name, address, bank details, or doctor
- You wish to stop receiving the benefit
- Your immigration status changes
You can report changes by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm).
How Changes Could Affect Your Payment
Reporting a change could result in either an increase or decrease in your benefit. For instance:
- If you now need night-time supervision, you might move from the lower rate to the higher rate.
- Entering a hospital or care home for an extended stay may pause your payments.
- Failing to update information promptly could lead to repayment of overpaid benefits or court proceedings.
Scotland’s Attendance Allowance Update
In Scotland, new claims for Attendance Allowance are now made under the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP).
Existing recipients must continue reporting changes to the DWP until their award transitions to Social Security Scotland, a migration expected to be completed by end of 2025.
When to Request a Review
Even if you haven’t been advised to update your claim, you should request a review if:
- Your mobility, mental health, or physical health has deteriorated
- You now require help with bathing, dressing, eating, or safety
- You face increased difficulties completing tasks due to pain or slowness
Conditions supported include mental health disorders, sensory impairments (deafness or blindness), learning difficulties, and over 50 different chronic illnesses.
Attendance Allowance is a vital support system for older individuals coping with health issues. However, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the DWP is informed of any change in your health, care needs, or living situation.
Keeping your information up to date ensures that you receive the correct payment—and avoids any disruptions or penalties.
FAQs
What happens if I don’t report a change in my condition to the DWP?
You may have to repay overpaid benefits, face a fine, or even legal action if you fail to report significant changes.
Can my Attendance Allowance increase if my health worsens?
Yes, if your care needs increase, you may be eligible for the higher rate of £110.40 per week.
Is Attendance Allowance affected if I go into a hospital or care home?
Yes. Payments may pause depending on the length of stay and whether costs are government-funded. Always notify the DWP promptly.
