Pensioners in England and Wales now have a new way to apply for Attendance Allowance, following a digital overhaul of the claims process by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). For the first time, eligible older people can apply for this essential benefit online a significant step toward modernising access to financial support for those living with disabilities or health conditions.
What Is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit designed to help people over State Pension age with extra costs if they have a disability severe enough that they need someone to help look after them.
The benefit is tax-free and not dependent on income or savings. It is paid at two rates depending on the level of care needed:
- Lower rate (£72.65 per week): If you need frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night.
- Higher rate (£108.55 per week): If you need help or supervision both day and night, or you are terminally ill.
You do not need to have a carer or be receiving any formal care to claim.
Online Applications Now Available
In a move aimed at simplifying the process, the DWP has introduced an online application option for Attendance Allowance claims. This digital form allows pensioners to submit their information more easily, eliminating the need to complete and post lengthy paper forms.
The online service is currently available to a limited number of applicants each week and is gradually being rolled out. According to the DWP, this controlled release will help ensure the service operates smoothly and can be adapted based on user feedback.
Who Can Use the Online Service?
Not everyone can apply online at least for now. The DWP has clarified that the digital claim process is not currently available to people who:
- Are applying on behalf of someone else as an appointee.
- Hold power of attorney for the applicant.
In these cases, individuals must continue to use the traditional paper form.
What You Need to Apply
To complete an Attendance Allowance application online, applicants should have the following information ready:
- National Insurance number
- Full address and contact details
- Information about any disabilities or health conditions
- Name and address of your GP or medical centre
- Details of care support, if relevant (care home, hospice, hospital)
There is no requirement to attend a medical assessment in most cases, although applicants may be contacted for further information.
Postal Applications Still an Option
For those unable or unwilling to use the new online form, the paper-based method remains fully operational. Claimants can either download and print the form or request one by contacting the Attendance Allowance helpline.
Requesting a Paper Form:
You can request a claim form by calling the DWP Attendance Allowance helpline:
- Telephone: 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Relay UK (if you can’t hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 731 012
Why This Change Matters
The introduction of an online application system represents a major shift for the DWP, which has historically relied heavily on paper-based processes for benefits like Attendance Allowance. Campaigners and charities have long pushed for easier, more accessible systems to help older people get the financial support they are entitled to without facing unnecessary bureaucracy.
The change is expected to reduce delays, improve processing times, and make it easier for pensioners with mobility or health limitations to apply for help from the comfort of their own homes.
A Word of Caution
While the online form makes the process more accessible for many, the limited rollout and exclusions for appointees and power of attorney holders mean that not everyone can benefit from the update yet. Users who are unsure which method is best for them are advised to contact the helpline for guidance.
Additionally, the DWP advises applicants to keep a copy of any information submitted online or by post and to note the date the application was sent in case follow-up is needed.
Final Thoughts
The shift toward digital applications is a welcome change for many pensioners seeking Attendance Allowance — a benefit that can make a substantial difference in daily life for those coping with health issues. While the system is still being gradually introduced, it marks an important move toward improving access to social security benefits in the UK.
