Attendance Allowance Calculator UK
Estimate your Attendance Allowance — for people aged 65+ needing help with personal care.
Calculate Attendance Allowance (2025/26)
Attendance Allowance Rates 2025/26
Attendance Allowance (AA) is a benefit for people aged 65 and over who need help with personal care due to a physical or mental disability. There are two rates for 2025/26: Lower Rate £73.90/week (day or night care needed) and Higher Rate £110.40/week (day and night care needed, or terminal illness).
AA is not means-tested, not affected by income or savings, and is not taxable. It can be paid in addition to State Pension and most other benefits. It can also trigger an increase in Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction. Claim by calling 0800 731 0122 or downloading form AA1.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance (AA) is a tax-free benefit for people aged 65+ who need help with personal care or supervision due to physical or mental disability.
What are the Attendance Allowance rates for 2025/26?
Lower rate: £73.90/week (day or night care). Higher rate: £110.40/week (day and night care, or terminal illness with expectation of life under 6 months).
Who can claim Attendance Allowance?
People aged 65 or over who have needed personal care for at least 6 months (except terminal illness cases who can claim immediately under DS1500 rules).
Does Attendance Allowance affect my other benefits?
AA itself doesn't reduce other benefits. It can trigger increases in Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction and Carer's Allowance for your carer.
Is Attendance Allowance taxable?
No — Attendance Allowance is completely tax-free and does not affect your tax-free personal allowance.
How do I apply for Attendance Allowance?
Call 0800 731 0122 or download form AA1 from GOV.UK. You describe how your condition affects you over a typical week, including your worst days.
What is the Attendance Allowance qualifying period?
You must have needed the care for at least 6 months before claiming, unless you are terminally ill (DS1500) in which case there is no waiting period.
Can I get Attendance Allowance if I live in a care home?
Not if the local authority funds your care. You can claim if you pay your own care home fees (self-funding).
What happens to Attendance Allowance when I die?
Payments continue for 8 weeks after death. The estate may be entitled to arrears if the claim was pending.
Can a carer receive Carer's Allowance if I get AA?
Yes — receiving AA makes you a qualifying person for Carer's Allowance. Your carer can receive £81.90/week (2025/26) if they provide at least 35 hours of care per week.
Does Attendance Allowance have a mobility component?
No — AA does not include a mobility component. If you need mobility support, consider PIP (if under 65) or existing Motability arrangements.
What if my Attendance Allowance claim is rejected?
You have one month to ask for a Mandatory Reconsideration. If still refused, you can appeal to an independent tribunal. Citizens Advice can help at all stages.