People on key DWP benefit could get up to £447 every month next year
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has released new figures showing that nearly 1.7 million elderly individuals are now receiving extra financial aid through Attendance Allowance. The allowance, currently valued at either £73.90 or £110.40 per week, is intended to assist those of State Pension age with daily living costs - it does not cater to mobility requirements.
In Scotland, this benefit has been superseded by the Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP), which adheres to a similar eligibility and payment framework. Both benefits, along with other disability allowances administered by DWP, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Carer's Allowance, are set to increase next year in line with the September inflation rate.
This figure is expected to be announced in mid-October, with the benefit uprating confirmed during the Autumn Budget. Recent data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) indicates that the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) inflation rate for June stood at 3.6 per cent.
If the CPI inflation rate remains at 3.6 per cent, the lower rate of Attendance Allowance will increase from £73.90 to £76.55, equating to £306.20 every four-week payment period. Those on the higher rate would see their weekly payments rise from £110.40 to £114.35, totalling £457.40 every four-week pay period.
The Scottish Government is responsible for determining the uprating for all devolved benefits, including PADP, and typically aligns with the uprating set by the UK Government under the CPI inflation rate. The confirmed rate will be announced in the Scottish Budget before the year's end, reports the Daily Record.
It's crucial to bear in mind that there are still three more CPI inflation rates to be revealed by the ONS before we can definitively ascertain how much Attendance Allowance or PADP will increase from April 2026. Understanding how the uprating is calculated and its current status can aid in future planning.
Here's everything you need to know about Attendance Allowance, including the primary health conditions being claimed, eligibility criteria, and how to lodge a claim.
Who is eligible to claim Attendance Allowance or PADP?
You should consider applying for Attendance Allowance or PADP if you have a disability or illness and require assistance or supervision throughout the day or at certain times during the night - even if you're not currently receiving that help.
This could encompass:
Help with your personal care - for example getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering and going to the toilet
Help to stay safe
You should also consider applying if you struggle with personal tasks, such as those that take a considerable amount of time, cause discomfort or require physical assistance, like needing a chair for support. Attendance Allowance and PADP are not exclusively for individuals with a physical disability or illness.
It's also advisable to claim if you require assistance or supervision throughout the day or night due to:
a mental health condition
learning difficulties
a sensory condition - if you are deaf or visually impaired
How much could I receive?
You could be eligible for either £73.90 (lower rate) or £110.40 (higher rate) per week. This equates to either £295.60 or £441.60 each pay period.
The funds can be used however you see fit and could assist in maintaining your independence at home for a longer duration.
Potential uses might include:
covering taxi fares
contributing towards bills
hiring a cleaner or gardener
Can I claim Attendance Allowance or PADP even if I have savings and other income?
Absolutely. Both benefits are not means-tested, so your other income sources or the amount you have in savings are irrelevant - there's no upper limit. Both benefits are also tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap, ensuring no deductions from any other benefits.
Will Attendance Allowance or PADP impact my State Pension?
No, they won't affect your State Pension and you can still claim even if you're currently employed and earning an income.
How does Attendance Allowance or PADP influence other benefits?
The other perks you may receive could increase if you're eligible for Attendance Allowance or PADP, these include:.
Additional Pension Credit
Housing Benefit Reduction
Council Tax Reduction
How do I apply?
To apply for Attendance Allowance, you'll need to fill out a lengthy claim form. It might seem intimidating initially, but assistance is available from your local Citizens Advice, so don't let the form deter you from applying.
If you'd rather handle it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to complete your claim form here. Comprehensive instructions on how to obtain the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
What happens if I'm nearing State Pension age?
If you're considering applying for Attendance Allowance or PADP upon reaching State Pension age, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment immediately - you could potentially receive more money.
Who is ineligible for Attendance Allowance?
Elderly individuals residing in Scotland can no longer claim Attendance Allowance and must instead apply for Pension Age Disability Payment.
You won't qualify for Attendance Allowance if you're already receiving PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to cover your care costs. If you apply for Attendance Allowance while receiving DLA, the DWP will typically reassess your DLA award instead.
You can renew your PIP or DLA when the current award expires, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. If your renewal is unsuccessful, you have the option to apply for Attendance Allowance instead.
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