The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is providing up to £441 a month to state pensioners living with arthritis, a condition affecting around 10 million people in the UK. Many over-65s are likely missing out on this valuable financial support.
Attendance Allowance explained
Attendance Allowance is a benefit designed to help with extra costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough to make self-care difficult. Importantly, you do not need to have a carer to qualify. The benefit is not means-tested, so your savings or income do not affect eligibility.
How much can you get?
The benefit is paid at two rates: a lower rate of £73.90 per week (£295.60 per month) and a higher rate of £110.40 per week (£441.40 per month). Arthritis is the most common reason for claiming, accounting for around one-third of all Attendance Allowance claims.
Who should apply?
Around 10 million people in the UK have some form of arthritis, with many being older adults. However, only about half a million people currently claim Attendance Allowance, indicating that many eligible pensioners are missing out. While having arthritis alone may not guarantee qualification—it depends on individual circumstances—it is certainly worth checking your eligibility.
To apply, you do not need a carer, and the benefit is not means-tested, so do not let concerns about savings or income deter you from applying. Over a third (35 per cent) of all 1.7 million Attendance Allowance claims are related to arthritis, highlighting the importance of this support for those with the condition.
