Around 1.7 million people born before 1959 may be eligible for up to £1,362 per month through two non-means-tested benefits: Attendance Allowance and Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP). These payments are designed to help older adults manage the extra costs associated with a disability, illness, or long-term health condition, providing financial support in addition to the State Pension.
What Are Attendance Allowance and PADP?
Attendance Allowance (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
This benefit is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and provides financial help to people over State Pension age who need assistance with personal care due to a physical or mental condition.
Pension Age Disability Payment (Scotland)
Scotland’s version of Attendance Allowance is the PADP, overseen by Social Security Scotland. While the core eligibility criteria remain aligned with the DWP’s scheme, the Scottish system aims to streamline the application process and improve the claimant experience.
Neither benefit includes a mobility component—they are designed solely to assist with daily living needs, not transport or mobility issues.
How Much Can You Get?
Both Attendance Allowance and PADP are paid at two rates, depending on the level of care required:
| Rate | Weekly Payment | 4-Week Equivalent | Monthly Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 | ~£320 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 | ~£480 |
Combined Monthly Example:
If an individual qualifies for the higher rate of both Attendance Allowance and PADP (possible for some dual-claimants in cross-border arrangements or transitional cases), that adds up to £960 per month. When additional top-ups or backdated elements are included, total support could approach or exceed £1,362 in certain cases—particularly if other entitlements are bundled.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility depends primarily on:
- Being over State Pension age
- Having a disability or health condition that affects daily living (not mobility)
- Needing help with personal care, such as dressing, washing, eating, or supervision due to mental or physical health needs
Commonly Supported Conditions:
While there is no exhaustive list, the DWP notes several conditions that frequently lead to successful claims, including:
- Arthritis
- Dementia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Stroke after-effects
- Heart disease
- Sight or hearing loss
- Mental health disorders
- Chronic pain or fatigue syndromes
Important: You don’t need a formal diagnosis to apply, but you do need to demonstrate how your condition affects your daily life.
How to Apply
You can apply for Attendance Allowance by:
- Calling the Attendance Allowance helpline to request a form:
0800 731 0122 - Or downloading the form from the GOV.UK website
For PADP in Scotland, visit the mygov.scot website or contact Social Security Scotland directly to start a claim.
Make sure to include as much detail as possible about how your condition impacts your life. Supporting information from a GP, carer, or hospital may strengthen your case.
For older people struggling with the financial burden of illness or disability, these benefits can offer significant relief. With no impact on other benefits or pensions, and no means testing, they remain an essential support for maintaining independence and dignity in later life. Eligible pensioners are encouraged to apply promptly to avoid missing out on valuable financial assistance.
FAQs:
Do I need to be receiving a State Pension to get Attendance Allowance?
No, but you must be over State Pension age.
Can I get Attendance Allowance and PADP at the same time?
Not typically. PADP is for Scottish residents, while Attendance Allowance applies in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Is the benefit affected by savings or income?
No. Both benefits are non-means-tested.
Is there a mobility element?
No. These benefits do not cover mobility needs. For that, Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Adult Disability Payment (in Scotland) may apply before retirement age.
