Thousands of older adults across the UK are set to benefit from an important update to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits system.
Under the 2025/26 DWP State Pension and Attendance Allowance uplift, pensioners living with long-term health issues like heart disease, arthritis, or mobility challenges may now be eligible for increased monthly payments of up to £1,362.
This update, a part of the annual benefit uprating, aims to support vulnerable pensioners by helping them cope with the rising cost of living while maintaining their independence in their homes.
What is Changing in the 2025/26 DWP State Pension Update?
Increase in Attendance Allowance Payments
Starting from this month, those receiving Attendance Allowance—a non-means-tested benefit for individuals with physical or mental health conditions—will see a rise in payments. The new weekly rates are as follows:
- £73.90 per week (lower rate)
- £110.40 per week (higher rate)
These amounts translate to monthly payments of £295.60 or £441.60, depending on the level of care needed.
Attendance Allowance is designed for those who need help with daily tasks such as dressing, eating, bathing, or moving in and out of bed due to illness or disability.
When combined with the New State Pension, which is worth £921 every four weeks, eligible pensioners could receive up to £1,362.60 per month in total.
| Payment Type | Amount per Week | Amount per Month |
|---|---|---|
| Attendance Allowance (Lower Rate) | £73.90 | £295.60 |
| Attendance Allowance (Higher Rate) | £110.40 | £441.60 |
| New State Pension | N/A | £921.00 |
| Total Monthly Support | N/A | £1,362.60 |
Who is Eligible for Attendance Allowance in 2025?
Attendance Allowance is available to anyone who:
- Is over the State Pension age.
- Struggles with daily tasks due to a health condition, disability, or mental health issues.
- Does not require a formal caregiver or existing care support to apply.
Some common qualifying conditions include:
- Heart problems (e.g., angina, coronary heart disease)
- Arthritis or severe joint pain
- Vision or hearing impairments
- Dementia or cognitive decline
- Chronic illnesses (such as Parkinson’s disease, COPD, or multiple sclerosis)
- Mental health issues (like anxiety or depression)
Currently, over 1.7 million individuals receive Attendance Allowance, including more than 124,000 pensioners with heart-related conditions.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
The application process for Attendance Allowance can seem daunting, but there is support available. To begin, request the application form from the GOV.UK website or call the Attendance Allowance helpline.
Additionally, you can find guidance on how to fill out the form through Citizens Advice.
Important Information for Scottish Residents
Starting April 22, 2025, residents of Scotland will need to apply for the new Pension Age Disability Payment (PADP) through Social Security Scotland, as Attendance Allowance will be phased out in the region.
The application process for PADP differs slightly from Attendance Allowance, but it offers the same level of financial support. Current recipients will be automatically transferred to PADP by the end of the year. More information is available on the Social Security Scotland website.
Why This Update Matters
The recent rise in inflation and escalating household bills have placed significant financial pressure on retirees, particularly those with chronic health conditions.
The DWP’s latest update is designed to provide older adults with the financial means to afford essential services like home care, transportation, and heating—helping them maintain their dignity and independence as they age in place.
The updated DWP State Pension and Attendance Allowance uplift provides crucial financial support to UK pensioners, especially those dealing with long-term health conditions.
This change aims to help pensioners manage the rising cost of living, offering them more security and enabling them to live independently in their own homes.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Attendance Allowance in 2025?
Anyone over the State Pension age who struggles with daily activities due to a health condition, disability, or mental health issue can apply.
What conditions qualify for Attendance Allowance?
Conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, dementia, chronic illnesses like Parkinson’s, and mental health issues such as depression qualify for Attendance Allowance.
How much can a pensioner receive in total under the DWP update?
Pensioners may receive up to £1,362.60 per month when combining Attendance Allowance with the New State Pension.