Attendance Allowance payment dates: how the four-week cycle works
Attendance Allowance is usually paid every four weeks straight into a bank account, and moves earlier when payday falls on a weekend or bank holiday, GOV.UK says.
Attendance Allowance is usually paid every four weeks, straight into a bank, building society or credit union account, according to GOV.UK.
The benefit helps with personal care costs for people who are State Pension age or older and need frequent help or supervision because of an illness or disability. It is paid regardless of a claimant’s income, savings or whether anyone cares for them.
What happens if a payday falls on a bank holiday?
“If your payment date is on a weekend or a bank holiday you’ll usually be paid on the working day before,” GOV.UK says.
Under the official bank holidays list, the next two bank holidays for England and Wales fall on 25 December 2026 (Christmas Day) and 28 December 2026 (the Boxing Day substitute day). A claimant whose four-weekly payday lands on either date would, under the rule above, be paid on the last working day beforehand.
How much is Attendance Allowance worth?
Attendance Allowance has two rates, and which one a claimant gets depends on how much help or supervision they need during the day and night, GOV.UK says.
| Rate | Condition | Amount a week |
|---|---|---|
| Lower rate | Frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or supervision at night | £76.70 |
| Higher rate | Help or supervision throughout both day and night, or a medical professional has said you’re nearing the end of life | £114.60 |
When does the first payment arrive?
“If you’re awarded Attendance Allowance, the decision letter will tell you when you’ll get your first payment,” GOV.UK says. A claim started online begins on the date the claim is made; one sent by post starts on the date the Department for Work and Pensions receives the form; one started by phone begins on the date of the call, as long as the signed form is returned within 6 weeks.
What if a payment does not arrive?
GOV.UK’s general guidance on benefit payments says a claimant should contact the office paying their benefit if a payment is late, using the number on their award letter.
How often is Attendance Allowance paid?
Usually every four weeks, GOV.UK says.
Does a bank holiday delay a payment?
No — GOV.UK says a payment due on a weekend or bank holiday is usually paid on the working day before, then continues as normal.
How much can I get?
£76.70 a week at the lower rate or £114.60 a week at the higher rate, depending on the level of help or supervision needed, according to GOV.UK.
Is Attendance Allowance the same in Scotland?
No. GOV.UK tells claimants in Scotland to apply for Pension Age Disability Payment instead, run through mygov.scot.