Attendance Allowance, What is it and Who Can Claim?

Attendance Allowance is a benefit from the Department for Work and Pensions. This video tells you what Attendance Allowance is and who can claim.
Published October 2021.
This video has audio and subtitles.
Transcript:
Attendance Allowance, What is it and Who Can Claim?
Hello, in this series of videos we are going to talk about Attendance Allowance on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions (or DWP).
So can you tell me first of all, what is Attendance Allowance and who can get it?
Attendance Allowance (or AA) is a benefit from the DWP. You can only claim Attendance Allowance if you have reached State Pension age.
Attendance Allowance is a disability benefit, is that right?
Yes you could say that. It helps with extra costs you may face if you have a disability that means you need someone to help look after you. You do not necessarily need to have a carer to be entitled to Attendance Allowance.
How is Attendance Allowance paid?
It is usually paid every 4 weeks but in some circumstances it can be paid weekly. Attendance Allowance is paid at two different rates. How much you get depends on the amount of care you need because of your disability.
All benefits are paid directly into your bank, building society or credit union account.
To find out how much you could get and the latest Attendance Allowance rates, you can visit gov.uk and search for Attendance Allowance rates.
What about my savings, will those affect how much I get?
No, Attendance Allowance is not a means tested benefit. What you earn or how much you have in savings will not affect what you get.
Are there any other benefits I can get if I get Attendance Allowance?
There is. You could get extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction if you get Attendance Allowance.
You should check with the helpline or office dealing with your benefit to ask about those other benefits.
Will I have to attend any medical appointments?
No. If we cannot get a clear understanding of how your illnesses or disabilities affect you, DWP may contact your GP or consultant to get further medical evidence.
For more information online, go to gov.uk and search for Attendance Allowance