Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit for people aged 65 and over who have physical and/or mental disabilities and need help with personal care or need supervision to remain safe. You can get Attendance Allowance even if you live alone; you do not need to have a carer. It is not means tested, there are no National Insurance Contribution tests.
If you start to get Attendance Allowance, it might increase the amount of other benefits or credits you’re entitled to. You may get an extra amount for severe disability with Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction or Pension Credit. Attendance Allowance is normally ignored as income for working out these income-related benefits and credit.
Unlike Personal Independence Payment (PIP) there is no mobility component of Attendance Allowance. There are two levels of payment for help with personal care (low and high), check rates.
If the you or the person you care for is terminally ill there are special rules to get the benefit quickly and easily.
You can claim online or get a claim pack by ringing the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0345 605 6055 or by visiting your local benefits office.
If you need help with completing Attendance Allowance forms contact Carers Bucks and we can refer you to the appropriate agency or visit the Sources of Further Information page.
Click here to download a copy of our Benefits information sheet
