The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed a significant increase in a key benefit for older people across the United Kingdom. From the start of the new financial year, millions of state pensioners receiving Attendance Allowance will see their payments rise.
New Attendance Allowance Rates Revealed
The DWP has published the updated payment rates, which will come into effect from April 6, 2025. The higher rate of Attendance Allowance will increase to £114.60 per week, up from the current £110.40. Meanwhile, the lower rate will rise to £76.70 per week, an increase from £73.90.
This uplift forms part of wider changes to the benefits system announced following the Autumn Budget. Labour's Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Pat McFadden, shared the new figures shortly after Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her fiscal statement in Parliament on November 26, 2024.
Wider Increases for Pensioners and Others
The rise in Attendance Allowance is part of a broader package of increases. Nearly 13 million people on the State Pension will see their payments grow by 4.8 per cent from April, in line with average earnings growth.
Other key changes include:
- Working age and disability benefits will increase by 3.8 per cent.
- Additional State Pension elements will also rise by 3.8 per cent.
- The Standard Minimum Guarantee in Pension Credit will go up by 4.8 per cent.
This last change means that from April, the weekly rate for a single pensioner on Pension Credit will be £238.00, while a couple will receive £363.25.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a DWP benefit designed to help with the extra costs faced by individuals who have a disability or health condition so severe that they require help with personal care. The benefit is paid at two different rates, depending on the level of care needed.
It is important to note that a different, faster process exists for those nearing the end of their life, such as individuals with a life-limiting illness.
The DWP has also outlined a significant administrative change for claimants in Scotland. From spring 2025, recipients will be automatically moved from Attendance Allowance to the new Pension Age Disability Payment, managed by Social Security Scotland. Affected individuals will receive letters from both the DWP and Social Security Scotland when the transition begins. New claimants in Scotland will need to apply for the Pension Age Disability Payment instead of Attendance Allowance.
These confirmed increases provide financial certainty for millions of vulnerable and older citizens, offering crucial support amid rising living costs.
