Who Can Claim Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is available to a wide range of people, but there are specific eligibility criteria that must be met. Understanding who can claim Attendance Allowance ensures you do not miss out on a benefit you are entitled to.
Age: Who Is Old Enough to Claim?
You must be aged 66 or over to claim Attendance Allowance. There is no upper age limit — you can claim whether you are 66 or 106. If you are under 66, you should look at Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) instead.
Health Conditions: Who Qualifies?
There is no definitive list of qualifying conditions for Attendance Allowance — it is based on your care needs, not your diagnosis. People who claim Attendance Allowance include those with:
- Physical conditions: arthritis, heart disease, COPD, Parkinson's, stroke effects, cancer
- Cognitive conditions: dementia, Alzheimer's, brain injury
- Mental health conditions: severe depression, anxiety, psychosis
- Sensory impairments: significant visual or hearing loss
- Multiple conditions: many claimants have two or more conditions
Does the Condition Need to Be Permanent?
The condition does not need to be permanent — but you must have needed help for at least 6 months. There is an exception for terminal illness where the 6-month rule does not apply.
Residency: Where Do You Need to Live?
You must be habitually resident in England, Scotland, or Wales. Some people returning from abroad or EU citizens with settled status may also qualify — specialist advice is recommended in these cases.
Financial Position: Does It Matter?
No — Attendance Allowance is not means tested. Anyone aged 66+ who has care needs qualifies, regardless of their income, savings, or whether they own their home.
Find Out If You Can Claim Attendance Allowance
The best way to find out if you can claim Attendance Allowance is to speak with an expert. At Elder Care, we offer a free, no-obligation eligibility assessment. Contact us today.