What Is Attendance Allowance – And Could You or a Loved One Be Missing Out?

By Sophie Hare, Director at Sussex Grange

Let’s talk about something that not enough people know about – but really should. It’s

called Attendance Allowance, and if you or a loved one are over State Pension age and need a bit of extra help with daily living, you might be entitled to it.

What Is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free benefit from the UK government. It's designed to help people over State Pension age who have a disability or health condition that means they need support with personal care – that might be help with washing, dressing, or even just keeping safe.

You don’t need to have a carer, and you don’t have to be in a care home to claim it. Whether you’re receiving home care, living with family, or paying for support privately, this allowance can make a real difference to your finances.

How Much Could You Get?

As of 2025, the weekly rates are:

• £72.65 (lower rate) – if you need help either during the day or at night

• £108.55 (higher rate) – if you need help both during the day and at night, or if you're terminally ill

  
  

That adds up to £282 to £434 every month, which can go a long way toward the cost of care – whether that's in a care home, at home, or on additional support like equipment or transport.

Check the current rates and eligibility on the GOV.UK website

Why Don’t More People Claim It?

That’s the million-pound question. Many families simply don’t know it exists, or assume they won’t qualify. Others find the form too daunting – and yes, it’s a big one.

That’s why I want to give a big shoutout to our friends at Selsey Community Forum. They offer a free “help with forms” service, guiding people through the Attendance Allowance application step-by-step. They’re based in Selsey, but also hold a monthly drop-in at our Chichester office, open to everyone, not just Sussex Grange residents or families.

Who Can Apply?

You might be eligible if:

• You’re over State Pension age

• You have a physical or mental disability or illness (including things like dementia, arthritis, mobility issues, Parkinson’s, etc.)

• You’ve needed help for at least six months

Importantly, it doesn’t matter what your income or savings are – that’s what makes it so underutilised.

How Do You Apply?

You can download the form from the GOV.UK website, or ask for a paper copy by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122.

But don’t go it alone if the form feels overwhelming – that’s what local support services like Selsey Community Forum are here for.

Final Thought

At Sussex Grange, we see families every week trying to make care decisions, often under pressure, and cost is always part of the equation. Attendance Allowance can be a vital piece of the puzzle.

Whether you're thinking about future care, already receiving support at home, or exploring care home options – this benefit might be available to you.

📍 Remember – the Selsey Community Forum’s support is free and open to all, and our team at Sussex Grange are always happy to point you in the right direction.

Got questions? Just get in touch – we're here to help in any way we can.

Best wishes,

Sophie Hare

Director, Sussex Grange