State pensioners across the UK could be entitled to receive up to £441 a month through Attendance Allowance, even if they already receive other support from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). However, this vital benefit remains widely underclaimed, personal finance experts warn.
Attendance Allowance provides £73.90 or £110.40 per week, adding up to £3,842.80 or £5,740.80 annually, depending on the level of care required. Despite its generosity, many eligible pensioners miss out due to misconceptions and lack of awareness.
Rebecca Lamb, external relations manager at Money Wellness, a free financial support charity, explains: “Many people assume they won’t qualify because they live with family, only need daytime assistance, or already receive other benefits. But Attendance Allowance is not means-tested—it’s based solely on care needs, regardless of income or savings.”
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Ms Lamb points out several reasons for the benefit’s low take-up: “People often underestimate their care needs, find the application process intimidating, or simply haven’t heard about Attendance Allowance. Carers tend to focus on the person they support and may forget to check if they themselves qualify.”
She encourages anyone over 65 who requires help with daily tasks such as washing, dressing, or managing medication to explore their eligibility. Numerous free online benefit checkers, including tools on the Money Wellness website, can assist with this process.
The impact of claiming Attendance Allowance can be significant. Rachel, who shared her story with Money Saving Expert, said, “My father receives the daytime rate, which has transformed his financial situation. It allowed him to get help at home, and also increased his entitlement to housing and council tax benefits. This year, he’s paying nothing for council tax and just £5 a week for rent. It has eased his financial worries considerably.”
With so many pensioners missing out on this important financial support, experts urge everyone eligible to check their status and apply.