The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a new online application process for Attendance Allowance, making it easier for pensioners born before 1959 to claim financial support. This benefit, worth up to £434 per payment period, is designed to assist individuals with disabilities or health conditions who require extra help.
How to Apply for Attendance Allowance
Pensioners can now apply for Attendance Allowance either online or by post. To complete the application, you will need:
- Your National Insurance number
- Your address and contact details
- Details about your disability or health condition
- Information about your GP surgery or medical centre
- If applicable, details about your care home, hospital, or hospice
The DWP has stated that the new online service will accept a limited number of applications each week.
Who Cannot Apply Online?
If you have an appointee or someone with power of attorney managing your financial affairs, you cannot apply online. Instead, you must apply by post using a printed claim form or request a form from the DWP helpline.
How to Request a Claim Form
If you prefer a paper application, you can request a form by calling the DWP helpline:
- Telephone: 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Relay UK (for those who cannot hear or speak on the phone): Dial 18001, then 0800 731 0122
- British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service is also available for computer users.
To submit your claim by post, send the completed form to:
Freepost, DWP Attendance Allowance
You do not need to include a postcode or stamp. The form comes with guidance notes to help you fill it correctly.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once your claim is submitted:
- You will receive a text or letter within three weeks confirming when to expect a decision.
- If your claim is approved, you will get a decision letter detailing your payment schedule.
When Will Your Payments Start?
- If you apply online, your claim starts on the date you submit your application.
- If you print and post the form, your claim starts on the date DWP receives it.
- If you call the helpline to request a form, your claim starts on the date of your call, provided you return the form within six weeks.
What If Your Claim Is Rejected?
If your claim is denied, you can challenge the decision by requesting a mandatory reconsideration.
Additionally, if you are dissatisfied with the service received from the DWP, you can file a formal complaint.
The new online application system aims to make it easier for pensioners to claim the Attendance Allowance without dealing with lengthy paperwork. This financial aid is crucial for those with health conditions, providing much-needed support. If you or someone you know qualifies, be sure to apply at the earliest opportunity.
FAQ’s
1. Who is eligible for Attendance Allowance?
Pensioners born before 1959 with a disability or health condition requiring extra help may be eligible.
2. How much is the Attendance Allowance?
The benefit is worth up to £434 per payment period.
3. How can I apply for Attendance Allowance?
You can apply online, by post, or by requesting a form through the DWP helpline.
4. When will my claim start?
Your claim starts on the date of application submission (online), the date DWP receives it (by post), or the date of your helpline call (if the form is returned within six weeks).
5. What if my claim is denied?
You can request a mandatory reconsideration if you disagree with the decision.
