National support guide
Attendance Allowance — what to check in the UK
Attendance Allowance may be worth checking if an older person across the UK needs help or supervision because of illness, disability or long-term health needs. The benefit is handled nationally, but local advice services and council pages can still help you understand where to get support before applying.
Who this may help
- Older people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision.
- People who cope alone but need regular support, reminders or watching over.
- Family members or carers trying to understand whether a benefits check is worthwhile.
What to have ready
- National Insurance number and basic personal details.
- Notes about care needs, supervision, falls, medication, washing, dressing or night-time help.
- Details of illnesses, disabilities, aids, adaptations and support already received.
- Contact details for a trusted person if someone is helping with the form.
Official next step
Check Attendance Allowance on GOV.UKCommon questions
Can someone claim Attendance Allowance if they own their home?
Yes. Attendance Allowance is not means-tested on property ownership in the usual way Pension Credit or local Council Tax schemes can be. Owning a home does not automatically stop a claim — check the current GOV.UK rules for the full picture.
Does Attendance Allowance depend on savings?
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested on savings in the same way as some income-related benefits. Savings alone usually do not decide the claim; care and supervision needs do. Always confirm the latest GOV.UK guidance before applying.
What daily difficulties should be explained on the form?
Explain what help or supervision is needed with washing, dressing, eating, toilet needs, medication, moving around safely, night-time disturbance, or being watched over. Practical examples and frequency matter more than medical labels alone.