1.1 Million UK Pensioners May Qualify for Attendance Allowance

Millions of UK pensioners with disabilities or illnesses may be eligible for Attendance Allowance, a tax-free benefit from the Department for Work and Pensions that provides up to £5,740 annually to help cover extra costs associated with personal care needs. Currently, about 1.7 million people over State Pension age are receiving the payment, but experts estimate that as many as 1.1 million others could qualify without realizing it.

The benefit targets individuals aged 66 or older who have a physical or mental condition severe enough to require frequent help or supervision for daily tasks, such as washing, dressing or eating, even if no one is currently providing that assistance. Eligibility does not depend on having a formal carer; recipients can use the funds to maintain independence, for example, by hiring cleaners or paying for taxis. The allowance is not means-tested, meaning savings or income do not affect claims, and it is exempt from the benefit cap.

Payments are made every four weeks directly into bank accounts at one of two rates, determined by the level of support needed. The lower rate of £73.90 per week applies if help or supervision is required during the day or at...