DWP Attendance Allowance - back pain could mean up to £434 a month (2025)

The Department for Work and Pensions has released new figures showing how many people are in receipt of Attendance Allowance

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has unveiled fresh data showing that nearly 1.7 million elderly folk are now pocketing extra financial help through Attendance Allowance. The benefit, which is either £72.65 or £108.55 per week, is designed to aid those of State Pension age with daily living costs - it doesn't include a mobility component and isn't means-tested.

Arthritis remains the most common condition claimed by almost 484,000 pensioners across Great Britain. However, there are also 74,804 individuals over the age of 66 claiming support for back pain.

Back pain, especially lower back pain, is a frequent complaint and while it usually gets better within a few weeks, it can sometimes persist or come back. Roughly 2.5 million people across the UK suffer from back pain every single day of the year, and many might not know that they could be eligible for financial help to cover any extra expenses caused by the condition, reports the Daily Record.

There could be many more individuals who are entitled to Attendance Allowance but simply don't have enough information about it to make a claim. Here's a rundown of what you need to know about the benefit, including how to kickstart your application.

What is Attendance Allowance?

Attendance Allowance is a financial support scheme designed to help with extra costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness that makes self-care difficult. It's crucial to understand that this allowance does not cover mobility needs and having a carer is not a requirement for making a claim.

Who can apply?

If you have a disability or illness that requires help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night - even if you're not currently receiving such help - you should consider applying for Attendance Allowance.

This could include help with personal care tasks such as dressing, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering, and using the toilet, as well as assistance to ensure your safety.

You're also encouraged to apply if you struggle with personal tasks, for example, if they take a long time, cause discomfort, or require physical support like leaning on a chair. It's important to note that Attendance Allowance isn't just for individuals with a physical disability or illness.

You should also think about applying if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night due to:

• a mental health condition
• learning difficulties
• a sensory condition - if you are deaf or visually impaired

If you're struggling with a mental health condition, learning difficulties or a sensory condition such as being deaf or visually impaired, you could be eligible for Attendance Allowance.

How much can I receive from Attendance Allowance?

This benefit could provide £72.65 if you require help either during the day or at night, or £108.55 if you need assistance both during the day and at night, or if you are terminally ill.

The benefit is paid every four weeks, meaning you could receive either £290.60 or £434.20 each payment cycle.

The funds can be used in any way you see fit, potentially helping to maintain your independence at home for a longer period. This could cover expenses such as taxi fares, bill contributions, or hiring a cleaner or gardener.

As Attendance Allowance isn't means-tested, your other income sources or the amount of savings you have are irrelevant-there's no upper limit. Plus, it's tax-free and exempt from the Benefit Cap, ensuring no deductions from your other benefits.

It also won't affect your State Pension, and you're eligible to claim it even if you're still employed and earning.

As for how Attendance Allowance influences other benefits, you may actually see an increase in your other benefits if you receive Attendance Allowance. These could include Extra Pension Credit, Housing Benefit Reduction, and Council Tax Reduction.

To make a claim, you'll need to fill out a lengthy claim form. While this might seem intimidating initially, assistance is readily available from your local Citizens Advice.

If you prefer to manage it yourself, the Citizens Advice guide provides a step-by-step process on how to complete your claim form. Detailed instructions on how to get the application form by post or phone are available on the GOV.UK website.

State Pension age applications

If you're thinking about applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, it might be more advantageous to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) straight away - this could potentially lead to a larger payout.

For further details about Attendance Allowance, visit the GOV.UK website here.