Attendance Allowance Rates 2025: Everything you need to know

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a financial benefit available to individuals who have reached State Pension age and face challenges in daily living due to a medical condition, disability, or illness. The allowance is tax-free and helps with costs related to personal care, whether you live at home or in a privately funded care home.

Attendance Allowance Rates for 2024/2025

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Attendance Allowance is divided into two rates, determined by the level of care and supervision required:

• Higher Rate: For individuals needing care or supervision both day and night, or those with terminal illnesses.

• Lower Rate: For individuals requiring frequent care or supervision either during the day or at night.

Here are the updated rates for the 2024/2025 financial year:

For recipients, this translates to an annual total of:

• Higher Rate: £5,644.60

• Lower Rate: £3,777.80

2025 Attendance Allowance Rate Increase

In line with inflation, Attendance Allowance rates will increase by 1.7% in April 2025. Starting April 7, 2025, the rates will be:

• Higher Rate: £110.40 per week (+£1.85)

• Lower Rate: £73.90 per week (+£1.25)

These increases reflect the ongoing commitment to support individuals facing rising care costs.

Who is eligible for Attendance Allowance?

You may qualify for Attendance Allowance if:

• You have reached State Pension age.

• You require frequent care or supervision due to a disability, medical condition, or illness.

• You have required care or supervision for at least six months.

A formal medical diagnosis is not always necessary. Eligibility is based on how your condition impacts your daily life. Examples include needing help with dressing, personal hygiene, or managing medication.

Attendance Allowance for Care Home Residents

If you reside in a care home and fund your care privately, you can still claim Attendance Allowance. However, those whose care is fully funded by the local authority may not qualify.

How to claim Attendance Allowance

To claim Attendance Allowance, follow these steps:

1. Request a Form: Call the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122 or download the claim form from GOV.UK.

2. Complete the Form: Provide detailed information about your condition and how it affects your daily life. Include examples of specific difficulties and symptoms.

3. Submit Your Claim: If you call to request the form and your claim is successful, payments will begin from the date of the call. If submitting a downloaded form, payments will start from the date the form is received.

Tips for a Successful Claim

• Be specific about your needs, such as requiring assistance with mobility or personal hygiene.

• Mention how often you need help and the time required for each task.

• Include medical evidence, such as letters from doctors or specialists.

How Attendance Allowance impacts other benefits

Attendance Allowance is tax-free and does not count as income when calculating other benefits. Claiming Attendance Allowance may make you eligible for additional benefits, including:

• Extra Pension Credit: An increase in your weekly Pension Credit payments.

• Housing Benefit: Support with rent payments.

• Council Tax Reduction: A reduction in your council tax bill.

Additionally, your caregiver may qualify for Carer’s Allowance if you begin receiving Attendance Allowance.

FAQs 

1. How often is Attendance Allowance paid?

Attendance Allowance is paid every four weeks directly into your bank or building society account.

2. Can I claim Attendance Allowance if I live in a care home?

Yes, if you pay for your care privately. However, individuals fully funded by local authorities are not eligible.

3. What medical conditions qualify for Attendance Allowance?

Any condition requiring frequent care or supervision, such as arthritis, dementia, or mobility impairments, may qualify.

4. Is Attendance Allowance affected by the Benefit Cap?

No, Attendance Allowance is exempt from the Benefit Cap, as it is a benefit for individuals above State Pension age.

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Attendance Allowance is a lifeline for older adults who need financial support to manage care costs. Understanding the rates, eligibility, and claiming process ensures you can access this valuable benefit. For those exploring care home options, Senior Home Plus is your trusted partner in finding the right fit. Take the first step towards peace of mind today by contacting us for personalized advice and support.