If you (or someone you care for) are over State Pension age and a health condition means you need help or supervision, you could be owed up to £114.60 a week — that's nearly £6,000 a year.
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested — your savings and income don't matter, it's tax-free, and it won't reduce your other benefits. In fact, claiming it can increase your Pension Credit or Council Tax Reduction. There's no catch.
Is the person over State Pension age?
State Pension age is currently 66 (rising to 67 between 2026 and 2028). Under it, the equivalent help is called PIP instead.
Do they have a physical or mental health condition, illness or disability?
Anything that affects daily life — arthritis, frailty, dementia, heart or lung conditions, sight or hearing loss, a mental health condition, and many more.
During the DAY, do they need help or someone to keep them safe?
For example: washing, dressing, eating, using the toilet, taking medicine, moving around the home, or someone keeping an eye on them. It counts even if no one currently gives that help — it's about needing it.
What about during the NIGHT?
Help getting to the toilet, turning in bed, taking medicine, or someone needing to check on them to keep them safe.
How long have these needs lasted?
You normally need to have needed the help for at least 6 months. If someone is terminally ill, there are special fast-track rules with no waiting.
Where do they live?
In Scotland this help is now called Pension Age Disability Payment — same money, applied for a bit differently.