Attendance Allowance in 2026: Everything UK Citizens Need to Know
Attendance Allowance remains one of the most valuable — and most misunderstood — benefits available to older people in the UK.
In 2026, thousands of people who are entitled to Attendance Allowance still aren’t claiming it. In many cases, it’s not because they don’t qualify, but because they’re unsure how it works, assume they won’t be eligible, or feel overwhelmed by the application process.
This guide explains what Attendance Allowance is, who can claim, how much it pays in 2026, and how to make sure you don’t miss out.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free benefit of over £5,000 a year paid to people over age 66 who need help because of a physical or mental health condition.
It is important to understand that:
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Attendance Allowance is not means-tested
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Your income and savings do not affect eligibility
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You do not need to be receiving professional care
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You can claim even if no one currently helps you
The benefit exists to help cover the extra costs of daily living caused by illness or disability.
You cannot claim attendance allowance if you already receive PIP, DLA or ADP.
Who Can Claim Attendance Allowance in 2026?
You may be eligible if you:
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Are over age 66
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Have a physical or mental condition that affects your daily life
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Need help or supervision during the day, night, or both
Common qualifying conditions include (but are not limited to):
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Arthritis and mobility issues
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Dementia or memory problems
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Parkinson’s disease
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Heart or lung conditions
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Sight or hearing loss
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Anxiety or other cognitive conditions
There are over 57 heath conditions that qualify and eligibility is based on how your condition affects you, not on a specific diagnosis.
How Much Is Attendance Allowance in 2026?
Attendance Allowance is paid at two weekly rates, depending on the level of support needed:
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Lower rate – £73.90 to a week, that’s over £320 a month or £640 per couple.
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Higher rate – £110.40 a week, that’s over £478 a month or £956 per couple.
Rates are reviewed annually by the government, and payments are made every four weeks directly into your bank account.
Because it is tax-free and not means-tested, Attendance Allowance does not reduce other income.
What Attendance Allowance Can Be Used For
Attendance Allowance is flexible. It can be used however you need, including:
There are no restrictions on how the money must be spent.
Attendance Allowance Can Unlock Other Benefits
One of the most important — and often overlooked — aspects of Attendance Allowance is that it can unlock additional financial support.
An award may increase entitlement to:
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Pension Credit
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Council Tax Reduction
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Housing-related support
Without Attendance Allowance in place, many people miss out on multiple forms of help, not just one benefit.
Why So Many Claims Go Wrong
Despite genuine eligibility, claims are often unsuccessful because:
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People understate their difficulties
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They focus on “good days” instead of bad days
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They don’t realise informal help still counts
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The form is completed too briefly or inaccurately
Many people minimise their needs because they’ve adapted, feel embarrassed, or don’t want to be a burden — but this often leads to rejected or reduced claims.
How We Help With Attendance Allowance Claims
We specialise in supporting people with Attendance Allowance applications from start to finish.
Our service is designed to:
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Assess eligibility before you apply
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Help you understand what the decision makers are looking for
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Ensure forms are completed accurately and thoroughly
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Reduce the risk of delays, errors, or refusals
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Remove stress and uncertainty from the process
For many of our clients, the reassurance of having expert support makes a significant difference — not just to the outcome, but to their confidence throughout the claim.
Final Thoughts
Attendance Allowance in 2026 continues to be a vital source of financial support — yet too many people miss out due to misunderstanding or avoidable mistakes.
If you or a loved one may be eligible, getting the right advice early can help ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.
If you’d like help with an Attendance Allowance claim, or simply want to understand whether you qualify, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
FIND OUT MORE AND CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY HERE.
