PIP vs Attendance Allowance: Which Should You Claim?
PIP and Attendance Allowance are both disability benefits, but for different age groups. Understanding the differences could be worth thousands of pounds a year.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | PIP | Attendance Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 16 to State Pension age | State Pension age and over |
| Mobility component | Yes (up to £80.00/week) | No |
| Assessment | Face-to-face/phone/video | Usually paper-based |
| Motability scheme | Yes (with Enhanced Mobility) | No |
| Blue Badge | Automatic with Enhanced Mobility | Must apply separately |
| Maximum weekly | £194.60 | £114.60 |
The Critical Tip
If you’re approaching State Pension age and have a disability, claim PIP BEFORE you reach pension age. Once you’re over pension age, you can only claim Attendance Allowance (no mobility component). But if you’re already on PIP, you keep it — including the mobility component.