State Pensioners Can Receive Up to £5,700 Annually from DWP—No Means Test Required

State pensioners in the UK can receive up to £5,700 a year through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Attendance Allowance, a benefit designed to assist those over pension age who have care needs. Importantly, this benefit is not means-tested, meaning your income or savings won’t affect your eligibility.

You may qualify if you require help with everyday activities such as dressing, using the toilet, or need someone to supervise you to prevent harm. This help can be inside or outside the home. It doesn’t matter if you don’t currently receive actual assistance—as long as you can demonstrate the need. Attendance Allowance covers a wide range of conditions, including physical disabilities, sight or hearing impairments, and mental health issues like dementia or depression. However, it does not cover mobility-related needs.

To be eligible, you generally need to have required help with your care needs for at least six months. For those who are terminally ill, claims can be made immediately. The benefit is paid at two rates, depending on the level of care you need. The lower rate is £73.90 per week, awarded to those needing frequent care during the day or night. The higher rate is £110.40 per week, for those who require care throughout both day and night or who are terminally ill.

Attendance Allowance does not reduce any other income you may have. In fact, being awarded this benefit may qualify you for additional support such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction.

To claim Attendance Allowance, you must not be living in a council-funded care home or hospital, must reside in the UK, and have usually lived in the UK for at least 104 weeks out of the last 156 weeks.

This valuable benefit offers peace of mind and financial support for pensioners facing care challenges.