The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is providing up to £458.40 every four weeks to state pensioners living with arthritis, the most common condition among Attendance Allowance claimants. According to DWP figures, around 35% of all 1.7 million claims for this benefit relate to arthritis.
Attendance Allowance Rates for 2026/2027
Attendance Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit designed to help people over State Pension age with a long-term illness or disability. The current rates for the 2026/2027 tax year are paid at two levels. The lower rate is £76.70 per week, equating to £306.80 every four weeks, for those who need frequent help or supervision during the day or night. The higher rate is £114.60 per week, equating to £458.40 every four weeks, for those who require help through both day and night or are terminally ill.
Eligibility and Claiming
Many eligible pensioners are not claiming the extra cash, according to reports from Express.co.uk. The benefit is usually paid every four weeks and is not means-tested, meaning income or savings do not affect the claim. It is also completely tax-free. The money is paid to people suffering from a long-term illness or disability, such as arthritis, that requires someone to help with personal care or supervision.
