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| Attendance Allowance |
Attendance Allowance 2026/27: New Rates, Eligibility, and Complete Claim Guide
Written by: Sarah Jenkins, Senior Welfare Rights Advisor
Updated for: April 2026 / 2027 Financial Year
Sources: Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Gov.uk
As we age, living independently at home can become more challenging. If you have reached State Pension age and have a physical or mental disability that requires someone to help care for you, you may be entitled to Attendance Allowance.
It is estimated that millions of pensioners across the UK miss out on this vital support every year. Crucially, Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. This means your income and savings do not affect your claim. Following the official benefit uprating in April 2026, the rates have increased by 3.8%, putting more tax-free money in your pocket to help cover your personal care costs.
1. New Attendance Allowance Rates for 2026/27
From 6 April 2026, the DWP pays Attendance Allowance at two different rates, depending on the level of care you require. It is usually paid every four weeks.
| Rate Level | Level of Help Needed | Weekly Amount (2026/27) |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | Frequent help or constant supervision during the day OR the night. | £76.70 (£306.80 every 4 weeks) |
| Higher Rate | Help or supervision during BOTH the day and the night, or if you are terminally ill. | £114.60 (£458.40 every 4 weeks) |
Care Needs & Eligibility Evaluator
Answer the questions below to find out if you qualify and estimate which rate you might receive in 2026.
1. Have you reached the UK State Pension age (currently 66 or over)?
2. Which part of the UK do you currently live in?
3. How long have you needed help with personal care or supervision?
4. When do you require help with personal care or supervision to remain safe?
2. What counts as "Personal Care" and "Supervision"?
To qualify for Attendance Allowance, you must demonstrate a need for help or supervision. The DWP assesses your needs based on the following:
- Personal Care: This includes physical assistance with essential daily tasks such as getting dressed, washing, eating, using the toilet, or navigating stairs safely.
- Supervision: You may physically be able to do tasks, but you need someone to watch over you to ensure you do not pose a danger to yourself or others. This is common for individuals living with dementia, Alzheimer's, or severe cognitive impairments.
Important: You do not actually need to have a carer in place to claim the allowance. It is entirely based on the need for care, not whether you are currently receiving it.
3. Changes for Residents in Scotland (PADP)
If you live in Scotland, the benefits system has undergone significant devolution. Attendance Allowance has been officially replaced by the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP), which is administered by Social Security Scotland instead of the DWP.
While the eligibility rules and weekly payment rates for PADP mirror those of the 2026 Attendance Allowance, the application process is handled entirely by the Scottish Government. Existing Scottish Attendance Allowance claimants will be automatically transferred to PADP without needing to reapply.
Please note: This assessment tool provides an estimate based on the DWP's 2026/27 guidelines. It is not a guarantee of an award. To make an official claim, you must complete the Attendance Allowance claim form (AA1) and submit it to the Department for Work and Pensions with relevant medical evidence.
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