New method state pensioners can use to claim extra benefit from DWP | Personal Finance | Finance

State pensioners can now apply for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Attendance Allowance benefit through a new online portal. Attendance Allowance is available to people aged 66 or over who need help with personal care or supervision due to illness or disability.

To make the process easier, the DWP launched an online application system last year, accepting a limited number of applications each week. Those unable to apply online, or who miss the weekly quota, can still use the traditional paper application. A DWP spokesperson previously explained: “We are temporarily testing a new online service to make claiming Attendance Allowance easier and to improve accessibility. While the online service is not yet widely available, no one will miss out as claimants can still apply by post.”

It is important to note that the online application must be completed on a desktop or laptop computer, as it cannot be done using a mobile phone or tablet. Additionally, the online system is not available for those applying on someone else’s behalf, such as through a power of attorney or as an appointee.

For those still keen to apply by post, individuals should call the Attendance Allowance helpline at 0800 731 0122 to request a form.

When mailing the completed form, the DWP’s updated guidance specifies that claimants should write only the Freepost address on the envelope, without the need for a postcode or stamp.

Who is eligible for Attendance Allowance?

People must be over the state pension age (currently 66) and have a type of disability or illness to claim Attendance Allowance. Nearly 1.8 million state pensioners are currently claiming the benefit. A wide range of health conditions could qualify a person for it, but here are the main conditions claimed:

• Arthritis
• Dementia
• Heart Disease
• Respiratory Conditions
• Disease Of The Muscles, Bones or Joints
• Cerebrovascular Disease
• Back Pain
• Visual Disorders and Diseases
• Parkinson’s
• Neurological Conditions.

It must be clear that claimants could benefit from help with personal care, such as getting washed or dressed, eating and drinking, or needing supervision to keep them safe during the day or night.

People must have needed for the past six months unless they have less than 12 months to live.

However, it should be noted that people won’t be able to claim Attendance Allowance if they already receive Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), or the care component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

How much is Attendance Allowance worth?

Attendance Allowance is paid at a lower rate and a higher rate. The rate eligible claimants receive is calculated based on how much help is needed, not any current help the person does or doesn’t get.

The 2025/26 rates are:

• Lower rate: £73.90 per week
• Higher rate: £110.40 per week.

People who require assistance during the day or night may qualify for the lower rate, while those needing help both day and night or facing a terminal illness may be eligible for the higher rate.

How to claim Attendance Allowance

People can apply for Attendance Allowance online or by post. Claimants will need:

• Their National Insurance number
• Address and contact details
• Details of the health condition or disability for which they need extra help
• Details of their GP surgery or medical centre
• Details of their care home, hospital or hospice if they’re currently staying in one.

You can apply online here or by post by contacting the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122.