The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that thousands of UK state pensioners living with certain medical conditions may qualify for a £5,740 annual payment. This financial help is designed to support older people struggling with health issues and living costs.
If you are a pensioner or know someone who is, this guide explains who qualifies, what the 56 conditions are, how to claim, and how the money can be used.
What Is the £5,740 DWP Payment?
The payment refers to Attendance Allowance, a non-means-tested benefit available to pensioners who need help because of long-term illness or disability.
It can be worth up to £439.20 per month (£5,740 per year), depending on the level of support required.
This money can be spent however the pensioner chooses – whether on personal care, mobility support, bills, or day-to-day living expenses.
Who Can Claim the £5,740 Support?
Eligibility is based on:
- Being State Pension age (66 or older)
- Having a disability or health condition that requires personal care or supervision
- Living in the UK for at least 2 of the last 3 years
- Not already claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
The 56 Conditions Covered by DWP
The DWP recognises 56 medical conditions that may qualify for support.
Some of the most common include:
- Arthritis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alzheimer’s and dementia
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Respiratory conditions (COPD, asthma)
- Diabetes complications
- Mobility problems
- Vision and hearing impairments
- Neurological disorders
👉 Pensioners suffering from any long-term illness or disability that affects daily life may be eligible – not just those on the official list.
How Much Can You Get?
There are two rates of Attendance Allowance:
- Lower rate – £72.65 per week (£290.60 per month)
- Higher rate – £108.55 per week (£434.20 per month)
That means pensioners could receive up to £5,740.60 a year tax-free.
How to Claim the DWP £5,740 Payment
Claiming is straightforward:
- Get a claim form (AA1) – Available from Gov.uk or by calling the Attendance Allowance helpline.
- Fill in the form – Include details of your medical condition, daily care needs, and supporting evidence from your GP.
- Send it to DWP – The form comes with a freepost address.
- Wait for assessment – DWP will review your claim and inform you of the decision.
Why Many Pensioners Miss Out
Research shows that over 3.4 million eligible pensioners are not claiming Attendance Allowance.
Common reasons include:
- Lack of awareness
- Thinking it only applies to severe disabilities
- Fear of complicated forms
In reality, even mild conditions that affect daily life may qualify.
Can You Spend the Money on Anything?
Yes. The DWP does not restrict how Attendance Allowance is used.
Pensioners often spend it on:
- Home care support
- Mobility aids
- Energy bills
- Transport
- Everyday expenses
This flexibility makes it one of the most valuable benefits for older people.
Impact on Other Benefits
Receiving Attendance Allowance can also unlock extra support:
- Pension Credit (extra amounts)
- Housing Benefit (increased entitlement)
- Council Tax Reduction
That means claiming it could improve your overall income beyond the £5,740.
What If You Are Rejected?
If your claim is refused, you can:
- Ask DWP for a mandatory reconsideration
- Submit more medical evidence
- Appeal to an independent tribunal
Many pensioners succeed on appeal, so it’s worth persisting.
Real-Life Example
Mary, a 72-year-old from Birmingham with arthritis, was awarded the higher rate Attendance Allowance.
She now receives £434 per month, which she uses to pay for:
- A part-time carer
- Special dietary needs
- Rising gas and electricity bills
This has transformed her quality of life.
Why the £5,740 Support Matters Now
With the cost of living crisis, inflation, and rising energy bills, pensioners are under pressure.
The Attendance Allowance is one of the few benefits that:
- Is not means-tested (savings don’t matter)
- Can be claimed alongside a State Pension
- Provides tax-free cash every month
Key Takeaways for UK Pensioners
- Over 56 conditions could make you eligible
- You could get up to £5,740 a year tax-free
- Money can be spent however you wish
- Claiming may boost your entitlement to other benefits
- Millions are missing out – check your eligibility now
Final Word
The DWP’s £5,740 support is a lifeline for pensioners with health conditions. If you or someone you know is struggling, it’s vital to check eligibility and make a claim.
The money is not automatic – you must apply. Don’t miss out on financial help you are entitled to.