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Benefits · 2025/26 rates

Attendance Allowance Calculator

Attendance Allowance helps people over State Pension Age with the extra costs of disability. It’s not means-tested — savings and income don’t matter.

Weekly payment

£73.90

Lower rate: help needed during the day OR night.

Breakdown

  • Weekly
    £74
  • 4-weekly (how DWP pays)
    £296
  • Annual
    £3,843

How we calculated your result

Two rates. Lower rate £73.90/week if you need help (or supervision) during the day OR night. Higher rate £110.40/week if you need help both day AND night, or are terminally ill.

Official UK rules in simple English

  • Must be over State Pension Age and have needed help for at least 6 months.
  • 6-month qualifying period waived for terminally ill claimants (under Special Rules SR1).
  • Tax-free; doesn’t count for the Benefit Cap.
  • Receiving AA can unlock Council Tax Reduction, Pension Credit and a Carer’s Allowance for whoever helps you.

Common pitfalls to watch out for

  • ⚠ ‘Help’ includes supervision

    You don’t need physical assistance — needing someone to prompt or supervise you to stay safe also counts.

  • ⚠ Don’t under-claim

    Many people understate their needs. Use a Citizens Advice or Age UK adviser before submitting the AA1 form.

  • ⚠ It doesn’t cover hospital stays

    AA stops after 28 days in NHS hospital. Resumes on discharge — let DWP know straight away.

Frequently asked questions

Will AA reduce my Pension Credit?
No — AA is disregarded for Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction. It can actually INCREASE those awards.
Do I have to spend it on care?
No — it’s your money to spend as you choose. Most claimants use it for cleaning, transport, gardening or extra heating.
Can I get PIP instead?
If you’re under State Pension Age, claim PIP. AA is the pensioner equivalent — but PIP has both daily living and mobility components.

Estimate of statutory rates only. The DWP assessment of care needs is the deciding factor — get help from Age UK or Citizens Advice.

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