Thousands of pensioners across the UK are missing out on life-changing financial support simply because they don’t know it exists.
If you’re over State Pension age and living with a long-term illness, disability, or mental or physical health condition, you could receive up to £1,382 every month — on top of your State Pension. This extra income can help ease the strain of living costs, care needs, and maintaining your independence at home.
Let’s break down who qualifies, how much you could get, and how to apply — wherever you live in the UK.
What Are These Payments?
There are two key support schemes:
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Attendance Allowance (AA) – For people in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland
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Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) – For residents of Scotland (replacing AA)
Both are non-means-tested, tax-free, and designed for pensioners who need help with daily life due to physical or mental health challenges.
| Payment Type | Weekly Rate | Four-Weekly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £73.90 | £295.60 |
| Higher Rate | £110.40 | £441.60 |
That’s between £3,440 and £5,740 annually — and you don’t need to be receiving any other benefits to apply.
Who Is Eligible?
You can apply if:
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You’re at or above State Pension age
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You need assistance with daily activities, such as:
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Getting dressed
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Preparing food
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Taking medications
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Using the bathroom
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Moving safely around your home
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You’ve needed support for at least six months
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You live at home or in a care home (rules vary slightly)
You don’t need to have a carer or be receiving physical help — even needing supervision or reminders can count.
Conditions That May Qualify
Many physical and mental health conditions are covered. These include but aren’t limited to:
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Mobility issues: Osteoarthritis, spinal injuries
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Neurological disorders: Stroke, Parkinson’s, MS
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Heart or lung conditions: Heart failure, COPD, asthma
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Mental health: Anxiety, depression, dementia
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Cancer or terminal illness
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Sensory impairments: Vision or hearing loss
Even if your condition isn’t listed, if it limits your independence — apply.
PADP in Scotland – What’s New?
If you live in Scotland, you’ll claim the Pension Age Disability Payment instead of Attendance Allowance. It works similarly and is being gradually rolled out.
By the end of 2025, all Scottish claimants will be automatically moved to the new system.
Example Monthly Income (2025)
Let’s say you receive the full New State Pension (£230.25/week) and qualify for the higher PADP or AA rate:
| Income Type | Weekly | Four-Weekly | Monthly (Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Pension | £230.25 | £941.00 | £3,162.00 |
| AA or PADP (Higher) | £110.40 | £441.60 | £1,515.00 |
| Total | £340.65 | £1,382.60 | £4,677.00 |
How to Apply
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Get the form:
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AA: Call the DWP or download from gov.uk
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PADP: Apply through Social Security Scotland
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Describe your needs clearly:
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Include difficulties, supervision needs, or how your condition affects you.
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Attach medical proof:
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GP letters, care records, hospital notes.
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Submit your claim:
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By post or online depending on your region.
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Wait for a decision:
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You’ll receive a letter with the outcome. If refused, you can appeal.
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Why This Matters
These payments aren’t just financial — they’re about supporting your independence, dignity, and choices:
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Adapt your home to stay safe
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Pay for transport to appointments
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Reduce reliance on others for daily needs
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Ease anxiety about rising bills
With inflation and care costs continuing to rise, this extra support can be a vital lifeline.
FAQs: What You Need to Know
Do I need to be receiving a carer or social services support to qualify?
No. You can still qualify even if you’re managing without professional care. It’s about what help you need, not what you currently receive.
Will this affect my other benefits or tax?
No. AA and PADP are tax-free and don’t affect other benefits, including your State Pension.
Can I apply if I only need help at night?
Yes. You may be eligible for the lower rate if you need help either during the day or at night. If you need help at both times, you may get the higher rate.
Can someone help me fill in the forms?
Yes. Organisations like Age UK, Citizens Advice, and Disability Rights UK can assist you.
What happens if my condition changes?
You can request a reassessment at any time if your care needs increase.
Don’t Miss Out on What You Deserve
You’ve contributed to society for decades — now it’s time to access the support you’ve earned. Whether you’re living with arthritis, heart issues, dementia, or another long-term condition, don’t assume you won’t qualify.
👉 Start the process today. Visit gov.uk/attendance-allowance or Social Security Scotland and apply from August 2025.
Need help filling in the form? Just ask — there’s plenty of support out there.
