Many State Pensioners could be missing out on disability-related financial support because of common misconceptions about who can claim. One of the main benefits to check is Attendance Allowance, which can be worth up to £114.60 a week under the current 2026/27 rates. That is around £5,959 a year if paid for a full 52 weeks.
However, this is not an automatic payment for every pensioner. Here are five myths worth clearing up.
Myth 1: You cannot claim disability benefits after State Pension age
This is incorrect. People who have reached State Pension age can potentially claim Attendance Allowance if a disability or health condition means they need help with personal care or supervision.
The benefit is specifically designed for people of State Pension age or older.
Myth 2: You need someone caring for you
You do not necessarily need a formal carer. Attendance Allowance can be available if you need help with personal care or supervision, even if nobody currently provides that help.
Myth 3: Your savings automatically stop you getting it
Attendance Allowance is not means-tested. Your income and savings do not affect the amount you can receive, provided you meet the other eligibility conditions.
This makes it different from means-tested support such as Pension Credit.
Myth 4: Claiming Attendance Allowance reduces your Pension Credit
Attendance Allowance itself is not counted as income for Pension Credit. In fact, receiving it could potentially help some pensioners qualify for an additional severe disability amount within Pension Credit.
Myth 5: You only qualify if you have a particular illness
There is no simple list of illnesses that automatically guarantees Attendance Allowance. The key issue is how your physical or mental health condition affects your daily life and whether you need help or supervision.
Normally, the need must have existed for at least six months, although different rules can apply for people nearing the end of life.
Check your entitlement
Attendance Allowance currently pays £76.70 a week at the lower rate or £114.60 at the higher rate. The higher rate over 52 weeks works out at £5,959.20 a year.
The important point is that the £5,959 figure is not a guaranteed payment. It represents the maximum annual value of the higher Attendance Allowance rate at the current weekly amount.
Pensioners who think they may qualify should check the official eligibility rules rather than relying on assumptions about age, savings or whether they already receive the State Pension.