What Is Lower Rate Attendance Allowance?
Lower rate Attendance Allowance is the standard level of the benefit, worth £76.70 per week in 2026 (increased from £73.90 in March 2026). It is paid to people aged 66 and over who need help with personal care or supervision either during the day or at night — but not both.
Who Qualifies for the Lower Rate?
You qualify for lower rate Attendance Allowance if:
- You are aged 66 or over
- You have a physical or mental health condition
- You need help with personal care or supervision during the day only, or
- You need help or supervision at night only
- You have needed this help for at least 6 months
Examples of Daytime Care Needs (Lower Rate)
- Help with washing or bathing
- Help with dressing or undressing
- Help with preparing or eating meals
- Help with taking medication
- Needing someone nearby due to risk of falls or confusion
Lower Rate vs Higher Rate: The Key Difference
The difference between lower and higher rate Attendance Allowance is whether your care needs extend to both day AND night. If you only have care needs during the day (or only at night), you receive the lower rate. If you have care needs in both periods, you receive the higher rate (£114.60/week).
Can You Move From Lower Rate to Higher Rate?
Yes — if your condition deteriorates and your care needs increase to include both day and night requirements, you can request a review of your Attendance Allowance award. The DWP will reassess your claim and may increase your award to the higher rate.
Make Sure You Are on the Right Rate
Many people are receiving the lower rate when they should be on the higher rate because their nighttime needs were not fully described at the time of application. At Elder Care, we can review your current award and help you request a reassessment if appropriate.