Disability support
Attendance Allowance
Summary
Help with extra costs if you have reached State Pension age and need personal care because of disability.
Who it may help
People over State Pension age with qualifying care needs may qualify.
Who may not qualify
People without qualifying care needs or who do not meet residence/presence rules may not qualify.
Current rate or rate range
Attendance Allowance is paid at a lower or higher weekly rate depending on level of care needed.
Source: GOV.UK — Attendance Allowance
Eligibility table
| Means test | Not means-tested. |
|---|---|
| Age | For people over State Pension age. |
| Needs test | Based on personal care/supervision needs. |
| Mobility | No mobility component in Attendance Allowance. |
Means test or contribution rules
- Means test: Not means-tested.
Payment frequency
Payment timing varies by benefit. Check the official source for the current payment schedule.
How to apply
Claim through GOV.UK form/helpline; NI route via NI Direct.
Documents needed
- Claim form
- National Insurance number
- Care and medical information
- Bank details
Common mistakes
- Applying through an unofficial channel instead of GOV.UK, NI Direct, or the relevant local authority service.
- Submitting incomplete identity, income, or household evidence.
- Not reporting changes in income, work, address, caring, or household circumstances promptly.
FAQs
Is Attendance Allowance means-tested?
No.
Does it include mobility payments?
No, it is for care needs.
Official source
Nation caveats
- Rules and administration can differ across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Confirm route and criteria with the official source.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-05
Review and source status
- Prepared by
- MissedBenefits Editorial Team
- Primary sources
- GOV.UK
- Last reviewed
- 2026-05-05
- Correction route
- [email protected]
- Status
- Guidance only, not an official decision
Start checker
Disclaimer
General guidance only. Check official rules before applying.