Attendance Allowance lower and higher rate

Attendance Allowance · England only

Attendance Allowance lower and higher rate

Attendance Allowance is paid at two rates — lower and higher. Which rate applies depends on the level of care or supervision you need.

We explain the system. We do not advise on individual cases.

The two rates

Attendance Allowance has a lower rate and a higher rate. Check GOV.UK for current weekly payment amounts, as rates are reviewed each April.

Lower rate

The lower rate applies if you need frequent help or supervision throughout the day, or if you need someone to watch over you during the day to avoid danger to yourself or others.

You may also qualify for the lower rate if you need prolonged or repeated care during the night.

Higher rate

The higher rate applies if you need frequent help or supervision throughout both the day and night, or if you are terminally ill (under the special rules for terminal illness).

If you need substantial care or supervision during both day and night, the higher rate may apply to you.

Day and night needs

Attendance Allowance considers your care needs separately for day and night. Day needs include help with personal care, taking medication, or being supervised to remain safe. Night needs include help during the night or needing someone to be awake to watch over you.

If your needs are mostly during the day or mostly during the night, the lower rate may apply. If you have significant needs at both times, the higher rate may apply.

Attendance Allowance does not cover mobility

Unlike PIP, Attendance Allowance does not have a mobility component. It does not take account of difficulty with walking or getting around. See our page on Attendance Allowance and mobility for more information.

Official source

For current rates and eligibility: GOV.UK — What you’ll get with Attendance Allowance

Attendance Allowance rates for 2026/27

Rate Per week (2026/27)
Higher rate (help day and night, or terminal illness) £114.60
Lower rate (help by day or by night) £76.70

These amounts are for the 2026/27 tax year and usually change each April. Always check the current figures on the official source: GOV.UK benefit and pension rates.

Was this page helpful?

Last reviewed: June 2026. We review this website regularly. Benefit rules and amounts can change — for current forms, deadlines and rates, always check GOV.UK. See how we keep this up to date.