Benefits You May Be Eligible for with Dementia

A dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming, but there is financial support available that many people do not know about. Whether you have been diagnosed yourself or you care for someone with dementia, there are several UK benefits you may be entitled to claim.

How Dementia May Affect Benefit Eligibility

Dementia affects memory, thinking, and the ability to carry out everyday tasks. Benefits assessments consider whether you need supervision, prompting, or assistance with activities such as preparing meals, managing medication, washing, dressing, and staying safe. People with dementia often score highly on benefit assessments because the condition typically requires significant support with daily activities. It can be helpful for a carer or family member to assist with the application process.

Attendance Allowance and Dementia

Attendance Allowance is often the most relevant benefit for people over State Pension age with dementia. It provides up to £110.40 per week and is not means-tested — so savings and income do not affect eligibility. When applying, describe the supervision and help needed throughout the day and night. Include prompting to eat, reminders to take medication, help with personal hygiene, and any safety concerns such as wandering or leaving appliances on.

Carer's Allowance

If you care for someone with dementia for 35 or more hours per week, you may be eligible for Carer's Allowance — up to £81.90 per week. The person you care for typically needs to be receiving a qualifying disability benefit such as Attendance Allowance (higher rate) or PIP daily living component. Even if you cannot receive the payment (for example, because you receive a full State Pension), establishing an underlying entitlement to Carer's Allowance could unlock a carer premium on other benefits.

Special Rules and Other Support

If dementia is severely progressing, the special rules process may apply, which can speed up claims significantly. Speak with the person's GP about whether this applies. Other support that may be available includes Pension Credit, Council Tax Reduction (including a possible discount if the person with dementia is not counted for Council Tax purposes), a Blue Badge, and help with housing costs.

Benefits You May Be Eligible For

Based on how dementia may affect daily life, the following benefits could be relevant to your situation. Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances.

Attendance Allowance

For people over State Pension age who need help with personal care.

Up to £110.40/wk

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

For working-age adults whose health affects daily living or mobility.

Up to £184.30/wk

Carer's Allowance

For people who care for someone with a disability 35+ hours per week.

Up to £83.30/wk

Pension Credit

Tops up weekly income for people over State Pension age.

Up to £218.15/wk (couple)

Council Tax Reduction

Reduction on Council Tax for people on low income or receiving certain benefits.

Up to 100% discount

Universal Credit

Main means-tested benefit for working-age people on low income.

Varies by circumstance

Blue Badge

Parking concession for people with mobility difficulties.

Housing Benefit

Help with rent for people on low income.

Varies by area

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone with dementia claim Attendance Allowance?

Yes, people with dementia are often eligible for Attendance Allowance at the higher rate. The benefit is based on the level of care and supervision needed, which is typically significant with dementia. It is not means-tested.

Who fills in the benefits form if someone has dementia?

A family member, carer, or friend can help complete the form. If the person with dementia lacks capacity to manage their benefits, an appointee can be formally designated to act on their behalf. You can apply to the DWP to become an appointee.

Can I get Council Tax reduction for a person with dementia?

A person with a severe mental impairment (which can include dementia) may be disregarded for Council Tax purposes. This could reduce your Council Tax bill, potentially to zero if they are the only other adult in the household. Contact your local council to apply.

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Important: Benefits Robin is not affiliated with the DWP or UK Government. We provide information and assistance, not legal or financial advice. These are estimates based on your answers. Final decisions are made by the DWP.