Plain answer
What is Attendance Allowance, in plain English?
Checked 21 September 2026 against GOV.UK · Sources at the bottom
Short answer
A weekly, tax-free payment for people over State Pension age who need help or watching over because of an illness or disability. It is not means-tested.
Who it's for
Attendance Allowance is paid to people over State Pension age. Someone younger with similar needs may be able to claim Personal Independence Payment instead.
How much
£76.70a week. Help needed day or night.
£114.60a week. Help needed day and night, or if nearing the end of life.
It is tax-free, and savings, income and pensions do not affect it.
The three checks
1Over State Pension age.
2Needs help or watching over because of an illness or disability.
3Has needed that help for about 6 months.
Not sure? Take the 30-second check.
Three questions. Nothing stored.
Sources, last checked 21 September 2026 against GOV.UK
Attendance Allowance rates, GOV.UK · Attendance Allowance rates, MoneySavingExpert · Attendance Allowance eligibility, GOV.UK · The claim form (AA1), question 16, page 7.
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