DWP confirmed £5,600 per year to State Pensioners born before 1959: Check Eligibility Conditions

The UK’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has streamlined access to Attendance Allowance, a non-means-tested benefit for older adults who need extra help due to health issues. If you were born before 1959 and receive the state pension, this update could mean up to £5,600 a year in additional support. The allowance is now easier to claim thanks to an online application option, though postal and phone applications remain available.

Here’s a closer look at what Attendance Allowance is, who qualifies, how much you could receive, and how to apply.

What Is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age who have a physical or mental health condition that affects their ability to care for themselves. It helps cover the extra costs of needing care or supervision, but you don’t need a carer to apply.

The allowance is intended for individuals who live independently and not in a care home funded by the local authority.

Who Is Eligible?

You can apply if:

• You were born before 1959
• You have a long-term illness, disability, or mental health condition
• You need frequent help or supervision during the day, night, or both
• You have been in Great Britain for at least 2 of the last 3 years

You don’t need to be currently receiving any care services, but you must be able to show how your condition impacts daily life.

How Much Could You Get?

Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates depending on your care needs:

Rate	Care Needs	Weekly Payment	Annual Amount
Lower Rate	Need help during day or night	£68.10	£3,541.20
Higher Rate	Need help during both day and night	£101.75	£5,291.00

Note: Rates may vary slightly each tax year. The £5,600 estimate reflects the higher payment rounded across the year with periodic increases.

How to Apply for Attendance Allowance

1. Apply Online

• A new online form is available, making it easier to apply digitally.
• Only a limited number of online applications are accepted each week to manage demand.

2. Apply by Post

• Download and print the application form from the gov.uk website.
• Or, request one via phone.

3. Apply by Phone

Call the DWP to request a paper form:

• Telephone: 0800 731 0122
• Textphone: 0800 731 0317
• Relay UK: 18001 0800 731 0122
• BSL Users: Use the video relay service

What You’ll Need

Before applying, gather:

• Your National Insurance number
• Your address and phone number
• Details of your health condition
• GP’s contact information
• Information about any hospital stays or care home admissions

Where to Send It

If applying by post, send the completed form to:
Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance
(No postcode or stamp is needed)

Who Can’t Apply Online?

The online form cannot be used if:

• You’re applying for someone else
• You hold Power of Attorney

These cases must be submitted via post due to security and legal verification reasons.

When Will Payments Start?

Application Method	Payment Start Date
Online	From the date you submit your application
Post	From the date DWP receives your completed form
Phone	From the date you call, if form is returned within 6 weeks

What If You’re Rejected?

If you disagree with the decision, you can request a Mandatory Reconsideration—a formal DWP review of your claim. If you’re still unsatisfied, you can take your case to an independent tribunal.

You can also submit a complaint if the process was unclear, slow, or mishandled.

The latest changes from the DWP, including the new online application process, make it easier than ever for eligible pensioners to access vital financial support. If you or someone you know needs daily help due to health conditions, now is the time to apply for Attendance Allowance.

FAQs