As part of its larger Service Modernisation program, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has said that it is taking steps to speed up and streamline the processing of new Attendance Allowance claims. Torsten Bell, the Minister of Pensions, said that the goal is to process 90% of all new Attendance Allowance applications within 30 days.
Mr. Bell said that most claims are being processed in about three to four weeks. This is because more people are using the new digital application route.
The DWP Minister’s comments were in response to a question from Labour MP Nadia Whittome, who asked, “What assessment has been made of the possible effects of current waiting times on decisions about Attendance Allowance claims?” This was especially important for claimants who are currently receiving chemotherapy or other cancer treatments, according to the Daily Record.
Mr. Bell wrote to the Nottingham East MP and said, “The Department keeps an eye on how long it takes to process Attendance Allowance claims and knows how important it is for older people, especially those getting major medical treatment, to get decisions quickly.” We have made changes to the way we process new Attendance Allowance claims faster and more efficiently as part of our larger Service Modernisation program.
After losing eight stones, Gogglebox star looks amazing in new photos.We are now aiming to clear 90% of new claims within 30 days. Right now, most claims are being cleared in about 3–4 weeks, thanks to more people using the new digital application route.
He went on to say, “We have a special fast-track process for customers who are nearing the end of their lives. This is called the Special Rules for End of Life, and claims are given priority and usually cleared within eight days.” By extending the definition of “end of life” from 6 months to 12 months, more people with serious conditions will be able to use this faster process.
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According to new DWP data, by the end of August 2025, more than 1.7 million pensioners were getting extra money through Attendance Allowance. Both plans currently pay £73.90 or £110.40 a week, and since payments are usually made every four weeks, this means that each payment cycle is worth either £295.60 or £441.60. The amount of money a person gets each week depends on how much care they need.
The amount given depends on how much care is needed. The benefit is meant to help people of State Pension age with their daily living costs, which may allow them to stay independent in their own homes for longer periods of time. It’s important to remember that Attendance Allowance doesn’t include a mobility part. The benefit helps people who have disabilities, long-term illnesses, or mental or physical health problems.
Who can make a claim?
You should apply for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and need help or supervision during the day or at night, even if you don’t get that help right now.
This could include:
- Help with your personal care, like getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, and using the bathroom.
- Help you stay safe
You should also apply if you have trouble with personal tasks, like if they take you a long time, hurt you, or you need physical help, like a chair to lean on. People with disabilities or illnesses aren’t the only ones who can get Attendance Allowance.
You should also claim if you need help or supervision all day or night and have:
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- a problem with mental health
- trouble learning
- a sensory condition, like being deaf or blind
How much do Attendance Allowance payments cost?
People who made claims could get £73.90 (lower rate) or £110.40 (higher rate) a week.
You can use the money however you want, and it might help you stay in your own home longer.
This could include:
- Paying for taxis, helping with bills, and hiring a cleaner or gardener
Can I still get Attendance Allowance if I have savings and other income?
Yes. Attendance Allowance isn’t based on your income, so it doesn’t matter how much money you have coming in or how much you have in savings. It is also tax-free, and you won’t have to pay the Benefit Cap, so you won’t lose any money from other benefits.
Will the Attendance Allowance change my State Pension?
No, it won’t change your State Pension, and you can even claim it if you’re still working and making money.
How does Attendance Allowance change other benefits?
If you get Attendance Allowance, some of the other benefits you get may go up. These are:
- Extra Pension Money
- Cut in Housing Benefit
- Lowering the Council Tax
How do I file a claim?
When you apply for Attendance Allowance, you will have to fill out a long claim form. It might seem hard at first, but Citizens Advice and Independent Age can help.
Here is where you can find all the information you need about how to get the application form by mail or phone.
What happens if I’m about to turn 65 and get my state pension?
If you’re thinking about applying for Attendance Allowance when you turn 65, you might be better off claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) right away. You might be able to get more money.
Who can’t get Attendance Allowance?
If you already get PIP or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to help pay for your care, you won’t be able to get Attendance Allowance. If you get DLA and then apply for Attendance Allowance, the DWP will usually look at your DLA award again instead.
If you still meet the requirements, you can renew your PIP or DLA when your current award ends. You can apply for Attendance Allowance instead if your renewal doesn’t go through.
