Many older people across the UK who receive financial help from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have been issued a serious warning. Those getting Attendance Allowance — a tax-free benefit — could lose their payments of up to £441 per month if they fail to report changes in their circumstances.
This update comes after recent figures showed nearly 1.7 million people in the UK were receiving this support at the end of August last year.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested and tax-free benefit provided by the DWP. It is meant to help elderly people with extra costs related to health conditions or disabilities that require care or supervision.
As of 7 April, the amount you can receive has increased:
£73.90 per week – for those who need help during the day or night
£110.40 per week – for those needing help day and night, or those who are terminally ill
Since this benefit is paid every four weeks, the monthly payments are either:
£295.60 or £441.60, depending on the level of care required
Who Can Get It?
Attendance Allowance is available for people who are:
Aged 65 or older
Living with a physical or mental disability
In need of help with personal care or supervision
Not currently receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
This money helps older people remain independent and live in their own homes for longer.
Warning: Report Any Changes or Risk Losing Payments
The DWP has clearly stated that anyone receiving this benefit must report certain changes immediately, or they risk losing their payments. If you fail to report changes or give false information, you could face fines, legal action, or be asked to repay money.
The GOV.UK website says:
“You could be taken to court or have to pay a penalty if you give wrong information or do not report a change in your circumstances.”
Situations You MUST Report
If any of these changes happen, you should contact the Attendance Allowance helpline immediately at 0800 731 0122 (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm):
Change in your health condition or the level of help you need
You go into a hospital or care home
A doctor tells you that you may have 12 months or less to live
You plan to leave the UK for more than four weeks
You are sent to prison
Change in your name, address or bank account
You wish to stop receiving the benefit
Your doctor’s details change
Your immigration status changes (if you’re not a British citizen)
The Attendance Allowance is a vital lifeline for many older people in the UK, helping them live independently and with dignity. However, it comes with responsibilities. Failing to follow the rules or report key changes could mean losing this valuable support. If you’re unsure whether a change affects your payments, it’s best to call the helpline and clarify. This will protect your payments and keep everything in line with the DWP’s rules.
FAQs
How much is the Attendance Allowance in 2024?
As of April 7, 2024, claimants can receive £73.90 per week (lower rate) or £110.40 per week (higher rate), depending on the level of care needed.
What should I report to the DWP if I get Attendance Allowance?
You must report changes in health, hospital stays, address, doctor details, travel abroad over 4 weeks, prison time, or changes to immigration status.
What happens if I don’t report changes to the DWP?
You could be fined, taken to court, or made to repay benefits if you fail to report changes in your circumstances.
How often is Attendance Allowance paid?
It is paid every four weeks, directly into the claimant’s bank or building society account.
How can I contact the Attendance Allowance helpline?
You can call 0800 731 0122 between 8 am and 6 pm, Monday to Friday, for help or to report any changes.
