Many older people in the UK get financial help through something called Attendance Allowance. This money helps them manage daily tasks and stay independent. But now, nearly two million people are being warned — if they don’t inform the government about certain changes in their lives, they could lose more than £440 a month.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-taxable benefit given by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It supports people aged 65 and above who need help due to a disability or health condition. The money helps them live independently without needing full-time care.
As of August last year, about 1.7 million people were receiving this allowance. The benefit pays either £73.90 or £110.40 a week, depending on how much help the person needs. These amounts were recently updated as part of yearly changes.
Why You Must Report Changes
The UK government clearly says: You must tell the DWP if your situation changes. If you don’t, you could lose the benefit or even face legal action. The GOV.UK website warns that giving wrong information or hiding changes can lead to court action or fines.
Even small changes in your life could affect how much money you receive — it could go up or down. That’s why it’s important to report everything to the Attendance Allowance helpline.
What Changes Should You Report?
If you get Attendance Allowance, make sure to inform the DWP right away if any of the following happen:
H2: Health or Care Needs Change
If your condition gets better or worse, or if you need more or less help each day or night, you must report it. Even if you’re not receiving help right now but feel you need it, this is still important.
H2: Hospital, Care Home or Abroad Stay
Let the DWP know if you:
- Are in hospital or a care home
- Plan to leave the UK for more than 4 weeks
They need to know where you are staying, how long, and how it’s being paid for.
H2: Serious Health Condition
If a doctor has told you that you may have less than 12 months to live, this must be reported. You may get quicker support or different benefits.
H2: Personal Information Changes
Any changes to your name, address, bank details, or doctor’s contact information must also be shared with the DWP.
H2: Legal or Immigration Status
If you go to prison or your immigration status changes, and you’re not a British citizen, you must report that too.
When to Report Needing More Help
If you feel your daily tasks have become harder — such as bathing, dressing, eating, or using the toilet — you may now qualify for a higher payment. Even if tasks are painful, slow, or need support, that counts.
It’s not just about physical conditions. You should report a change if you need more help due to:
- Mental health issues
- Learning difficulties
- Being blind or deaf
How to Contact the DWP
To report any changes, call the Attendance Allowance helpline:
0800 731 0122 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm).
You can also visit the official GOV.UK website for full details.
If you’re receiving Attendance Allowance, staying updated with the DWP is very important. Any change in your condition, care needs, or living situation could affect your payments. Failing to report these changes could lead to losing your benefit or facing legal action. It’s always better to ask the DWP if you’re unsure — it could help you keep receiving the money you need to live comfortably and independently.
FAQs
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit provided by the DWP to people over 65 who need help with personal care due to illness or disability. It helps with extra costs and is not means-tested.
How much can you get from Attendance Allowance in 2025?
You can receive either £73.90 or £110.40 a week, depending on the level of care and support you need. These amounts were updated as part of the recent yearly adjustment.
Do I need to report a hospital or care home stay to the DWP?
Yes, you must report if you go into hospital or a care home, including the dates, the address, and how the stay is paid for, as it could affect your payments.
Can a mental health condition qualify me for Attendance Allowance?
Yes, mental health conditions, learning difficulties, or sensory issues like being deaf or blind can also qualify you for Attendance Allowance if you need daily help or supervision.
What happens if I don’t report a change in my condition or circumstances?
You could lose your benefit or even face legal action, including fines or court. Always update the DWP if your situation changes.