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A DWP benefit could entitle you to hundreds of pounds if you qualify. More than 1.7 million people over the State Pension age across the UK will receive up to £1,362 each month through payments from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Attendance Allowance is paid independently of the State Pension, but can offer additional financial support for older people with a disability, long-term illness, or physical or mental health condition. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested and is worth either £73.90 for the lower rate or £110.40 for the higher rate each week. As the benefit is typically paid every four weeks, this amounts to either £295.60 or £441.60 every payment period. Pensioners could add up to £5,740 to their 2025/26 income to help with extra costs through the disability benefits . The full New State Pension is now valued at £230.25 per week and as the payment is usually made every four weeks, this amounts to £921. Annual payments are worth £11,973 over the 2025/26 financial year, reports the Daily Record . However, it's crucial to note that not all of the 4.1 million people on the New State Pension receive the full amount as it is linked to National Insurance Contributions. The full Basic State Pension is currently worth £176.45 per week, or £705.80 every four-week payment period. Annual payments are worth £9,175.40 over the 2025/26 financial year. To forecast your future State Pension payments, utilise the online forecasting tool on GOV.UK here. The amount received for Attendance Allowance depends on the level of support required. The benefit is designed to assist people of State Pension age with daily living expenses due to their condition, which can also help them maintain independence in their own home for a longer period. The benefit aids people with a disability, chronic illness, and mental or physical health problems. The list of conditions supported through Attendance Allowance is extensive, but arthritis is the most common disabling condition - a term used by the DWP - providing support for 483,376 people across the UK. It's important to note that this list is not a checklist for claiming Attendance Allowance, but rather a guide to help people understand the types of conditions being supported. The following statistics show the percentage of people claiming for health issues related to these 48 conditions: Attendance Allowance helps with extra costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough that it makes self-care difficult - it does not cover mobility needs. You do not need to have someone caring for you in order to make a claim. If you have a disability or illness and require assistance or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night - even if you're not currently receiving that help - you should apply for Attendance Allowance. This could include needing help with personal care, such as getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, and using the toilet. It also covers help needed to stay safe. If you find personal tasks challenging, such as if they take a long time, cause discomfort, or require physical support like leaning on a chair, you should consider applying. Attendance Allowance isn't just for individuals with a physical disability or illness. You should also apply if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night due to a mental health condition, learning difficulties, or a sensory condition - such as being deaf or visually impaired. You could be eligible for either £73.90 (lower rate) or £110.40 (higher rate) each week. This equates to either £295.60 or £441.60 every pay period. The money can be used however you see fit and it could help you maintain your independence at home for longer. This could include paying for taxis, contributing towards bills, or hiring a cleaner or gardener. To apply for Attendance Allowance, you'll need to complete a lengthy claim form. It might seem daunting at first, but help is available from your local Citizens Advice, so don't let the form put you off applying. If you'd rather do it yourself, you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to fill in your claim form here. Full details of how to get the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the GOV.UK website.
