If you’ve reached State Pension age and are living with a long-term illness, disability, or health condition, you may qualify for up to £1,362 every month in additional financial support.
Available through two separate schemes—Attendance Allowance (AA) and Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP)—these are paid on top of your pension to help you stay independent and manage extra daily costs.
With 1.7 million people across Great Britain receiving these benefits—including 150,000 in Scotland—now’s the time to find out if you’re eligible.
What Are These Payments?
Both Attendance Allowance and PADP are non-means-tested, tax-free weekly benefits designed to support older people who need help with everyday living. The rates are:
| Payment | Weekly Rate | Four-Weekly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Attendance Allowance (lower) | £73.90 | £295.60 |
| Attendance Allowance (higher) | £110.40 | £441.60 |
| PADP (Scotland) lower | £73.90 | £295.60 |
| PADP (Scotland) higher | £110.40 | £441.60 |
As the benefits are typically disbursed every four weeks, recipients can gain between £295.60 and £441.60 per payment. Annually, that adds up to £3,440.40 – £5,740.80, on top of your regular State Pension.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, you must:
- Have reached State Pension age
- Need help with daily tasks like dressing, bathing, eating, or going to the toilet because of a physical or mental health condition
- Have required daytime or nighttime care (higher rate for both)
- Live in a care home or at home (where PADP applies in Scotland)
These schemes are not means-tested, so your savings and income level don’t matter. You can still be working and receive the payments.
Scotland-Specific PADP Update
In Scotland, PADP has replaced Attendance Allowance for those with a Scottish postcode. Existing claimants will be migrated automatically by the end of 2025. You cannot claim both AA and PADP simultaneously; choose whichever applies in your region.
How Much Could You Get Including State Pension?
Here’s what a person receiving the full New State Pension (estimated at £230.25 per week) could receive monthly if also eligible for the higher AA/PADP rate:
| Benefit | Weekly | Four-Weekly | Monthly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| New State Pension (full rate) | £230.25 | £921.00 | £3,162.00 |
| Attendance Allowance (higher rate) | £110.40 | £441.60 | £1,515.00 |
| Total Monthly Income | £340.65 | £1,362.60 | £4,677.00 |
These figures could significantly improve your quality of life, helping you remain in your home longer with less financial stress.
What Conditions Are Covered?
AA and PADP support people with a wide range of conditions, including:
- Musculoskeletal issues: arthritis, chronic back pain
- Neurological disorders: Parkinson’s, epilepsy, stroke-related care
- Sensory impairments: vision, hearing loss
- Respiratory and cardiac conditions: asthma, COPD, heart disease
- Cognitive disorders: dementia, learning difficulties, mental health conditions
- Severe chronic illnesses: cancer, paralysis, renal issues
If your condition affects your ability to perform routine tasks, you should consider applying—even if your condition isn’t listed.
How to Apply
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Get the form: Call the DWP or Social Security Scotland, or download it online.
- Fill it in carefully: Provide detailed descriptions of the help you need daily—day and/or night.
- Attach medical evidence: Letters from GPs, care providers, therapists—anything that supports your claim.
- Submit your application: Either by post or online, depending on your region.
- Await a decision: You’ll receive a letter detailing the outcome and your payment rate.
- Appeal if needed: You can request reconsideration or appeal within one month if declined.
Help is available from useful independent organizations if you find the process daunting.
Why This Support Matters
These payments are about more than money—they’re about dignity, independence, and quality of life:
- Cover everyday costs: From medications and mobility aids to home adaptations and transport.
- Reduce stress: For those with ongoing care needs.
- Protect your home life: Enabling you to stay in your own residence rather than moving into care facilities when possible.
If you’re over State Pension age and managing a long-term health condition or disability, Attendance Allowance or Pension Age Disability Payment could provide a vital financial boost—up to £1,362 extra per month.
These tax-free, unconditional benefits help cover daily care costs and support your independence at home. Even if you’ve already claimed one, it’s worth checking your eligibility each year as circumstances change. Apply now and access the support you deserve.
FAQs
Do AA or PADP affect my State Pension?
No, these benefits are paid independently and do not affect your pension. They’re also tax-free and not means-tested.
Can I claim if I only need help at night?
Yes, you may be eligible for the lower rate if you need help either during day or night. Assistance at both earns the higher rate.
What if I’m eligible but haven’t applied?
You can apply at any time and benefit from the date of application. Claims are often backdated if approved, so don’t delay.