Unlocking Extra Support: A Guide to Attendance Allowance for Older Adults
As we age, everyday tasks can become more challenging—whether it’s preparing meals, getting dressed, or simply staying safe at home. At Visiting Angels North Kent, we’re passionate about helping older adults maintain their independence while receiving the care they need. One important form of financial help that’s often overlooked is Attendance Allowance.
This benefit can make a real difference in your life or the life of a loved one, providing extra funds to support day-to-day living. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit available to people over State Pension age who need help due to a physical or mental disability. This includes conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, vision or hearing impairments, dementia, and many others that impact daily life.
You do not need to have a carer or be receiving care to qualify—it’s enough that you would benefit from help or supervision.
How Much Could You Receive?
The amount you receive depends on the level of help you need:
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Lower Rate – £72.65 per week: For those who need help either during the day or night.
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Higher Rate – £108.55 per week: For those who need help both during the day and at night, or who are terminally ill.
That’s up to £5,645 per year—money that can help cover the cost of care, mobility support, home adaptations, or anything else that improves quality of life.
Are You Eligible?
You could be eligible for Attendance Allowance if:
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You are 66 or older
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You have a disability or health condition that affects your daily living
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You’ve needed support for at least 6 months
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You live in the UK and meet the residency requirements
Importantly, Attendance Allowance is not affected by your savings or income, and receiving it won’t reduce other benefits—in fact, it could even increase your eligibility for other forms of support.
How to Apply
You can apply directly through the government by completing the Attendance Allowance claim form (AA1A), which can be downloaded online or requested by post. The form is detailed and can take time to complete correctly—it asks about your health, mobility, and the kind of help you need throughout the day and night.
Because many applications are unsuccessful due to lack of detail or misunderstanding the questions, it’s important to approach the form with care. Be honest and specific about your daily challenges.
Need Help Completing the Form?
We understand that completing the Attendance Allowance application can be daunting. That’s why we’ve partnered with a trusted third-party specialist service that can assist our clients with the entire process.
This partner offers:
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A free eligibility check
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A 45-minute phone consultation to collect information
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Full completion of the complex 30-page application form
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A success rate of over 97%, significantly higher than average
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A “no win, no fee” approach—fees only apply if the application is successful
Many families find this service helpful, especially when time or confidence is limited.
Let Us Help You Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one might benefit from Attendance Allowance and would like expert help with the application process, we can connect you with our trusted partner. Simply complete the form below, and we’ll arrange for them to get in touch.