Attendance Allowance
For in-home Care in Saffron Walden, Essex
The UK government provides a non-means-tested benefit called Attendance Allowance to people who are aged 65 or over and require assistance with caring for themselves or need someone to supervise them for their own or someone else’s safety. To be eligible for this benefit, the individual must have a physical disability (including sensory disability such as blindness), a mental disability (including learning difficulties), or both.
Additionally, the individual must demonstrate that their disability is severe enough to require assistance with personal care or supervision. This may include tasks such as getting dressed, bathing, or preparing meals. The individual must have needed this assistance for at least 6 months, unless they have a terminal illness.
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit, which means that it is not affected by an individual’s income or savings. The amount of benefit awarded is based on the level of assistance required and is paid at two different rates: a lower rate for those who require help during the day or night, and a higher rate for those who require assistance during both the day and night.
It is important to note that individuals who receive Attendance Allowance may also be eligible for other benefits such as Carer’s Allowance, which is a means-tested benefit for those who provide substantial care for someone who receives Attendance Allowance or other disability benefits.
Are you entitled to a Non-Means-tested Attendance Allowance?
You can get an Attendance Allowance if you’re 65 or over and the following apply:
- you have a physical disability (including sensory disability, for example, blindness), a mental disability (including learning difficulties), or both.
- your disability is severe enough for you to need help caring for yourself or someone to supervise you, for your own or someone else’s safety.
- you have needed that help for at least 6 months (unless you’re terminally ill).
You must also:
- be in Great Britain when you claim – there are some exceptions, such as members and family members of the armed forces.
- have lived in Great Britain for at least 2 of the last 3 years.
What you’ll get
The allowance is paid weekly at 2 different rates – the one you get depends on the level of help you need.
Attendance Allowance rates
| Rate | Level of help you need |
|---|---|
| Lower rate – £68.10 | Frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night |
| Higher rate – £101.75 | Help or supervision throughout both day and night, or a medical professional has said you might have 12 months or less to live |
If your circumstances change, you could get a different rate. You must report a change of circumstances.
You could get extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction if you receive the allowance
How to apply:
- Call the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122
- Visit the Government Website’s Attendance Allowance page to find out more.
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