Living With Arthritis
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Should I claim PIP or Attendance Allowance?

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is for people aged 16 to State Pension age with a long-term condition affecting daily life or mobility. Attendance Allowance is for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care because of a disability or illness. You can't claim both. If you're already claiming PIP when you reach State Pension age, you can keep it.

Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

When would you pick PIP (Personal Independence Payment)?

Aged 16 to State Pension age; long-term condition; help needed with daily life or getting around.

When would you pick Attendance Allowance?

Over State Pension age; need help with personal care because of arthritis or other illness.

What should I be careful about?

Both are non-means-tested and don't affect other benefits. Citizens Advice offers free application help.

Sources and references

  1. NHS: Arthritis overview
  2. NICE: Osteoarthritis in over 16s (NG226)
  3. NICE: Rheumatoid arthritis in adults (NG100)

Sources and further reading