The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed a list of nine breathing conditions that make state pensioners eligible for Attendance Allowance of up to £114.60 per week. This benefit is designed to help with extra costs for individuals over state pension age who have a disability or health condition severe enough to require assistance or supervision.
Attendance Allowance Rates
Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates. The lower rate, currently £76.70 per week, is for those who need frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night. The higher rate, now £114.60 per week, is for individuals who require help or supervision throughout both day and night, or if a medical professional has said they are nearing the end of life. These rates were updated in April 2026, with the lower rate rising from £73.90 and the higher rate from £110.40.
Nine Qualifying Breathing Conditions
The DWP has listed the following respiratory and breathing conditions in its successful claims caseload data:
- Respiratory Disorders - general category
- Respiratory Diseases - general category
- Asthma - a common condition that can become more problematic with age
- Cystic Fibrosis - a genetic disorder affecting the lungs
- AIDS - when it affects the respiratory system
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) - including long-term effects
- Viral disease - precise diagnosis not specified
- Tuberculosis (TB) - a bacterial infection affecting the lungs
- Bacterial disease - precise diagnosis not specified
Financial Support
Attendance Allowance is typically increased each April. For the 2026/27 tax year, the lower rate provides £3,988.40 per year, while the higher rate offers £5,959.20 annually. This translates to a minimum of £295 per month and a maximum of £459 per month for those needing the highest level of support. The benefit is tax-free and not means-tested, meaning it does not depend on income or savings.
To claim Attendance Allowance, individuals must be over state pension age and have a disability or health condition that requires help with personal care or supervision. The DWP encourages eligible pensioners to apply, as the benefit can significantly ease the financial burden of living with a respiratory condition.
