Guide: Applying for Attendance Allowance

Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people of State Pension age who have a disability or illness that makes it hard for them to look after themselves.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help patients in primary care apply for Attendance Allowance. The guide is also available in British Sign Language (BSL) and Easy-read format.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:

• You are of State Pension age.
• You have a disability or illness, which means you need help with personal care or supervision to keep you safe.
• You have needed this help for at least 6 months (unless you’re terminally ill).

For more detailed eligibility criteria, visit the Gov.uk Attendance Allowance eligibility page.

Step 2: Gather Required Information

You’ll need the following information to complete your application:

• National Insurance number.
• GP or other healthcare professional’s details.
• Details of your medication and any treatment or therapy. (It can be useful to keep a diary of how your health or conditions affect your daily living.)
• Information about how your condition affects your daily life.
• Your bank or building society account details.

Step 3: Obtain the Claim Form

1. Request a form by phone: Call the Attendance Allowance helpline to request a form.
   • Telephone: 0800 731 0122
   • Textphone: 0800 731 0317
   • Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 731 0122
2. Download the form online: You can also download the Attendance Allowance claim form from the Gov.uk website.

Step 4: Complete the Claim Form

1. Fill in your details: Provide your personal details and National Insurance number.
2. Describe your condition: Explain how your illness or disability affects your daily life. Be detailed and include specific examples of difficulties you face.
   E.g. You can include details of how your conditions or mobility affects your ability or time taken to complete everyday tasks.
3. Attach supporting evidence: Include any medical reports, prescription lists, or letters from healthcare professionals that support your claim.

For guidance on filling out the form, visit Age UK’s Attendance Allowance page.

Step 5: Return the Form

• Send the completed form: Mail the form and supporting documents to the address provided on the form. Ensure you keep a copy for your records.

Step 6: Wait for a Decision

1. Receive a decision letter: After your form is processed, you will receive a letter with the decision about your Attendance Allowance claim. This can take up to 12 weeks.
2. Understand the decision: The letter will explain whether you have been awarded Attendance Allowance and at what rate.

Step 7: If You Disagree with the Decision

1. Request a mandatory reconsideration: If you disagree with the decision, you can ask for it to be reconsidered. You must do this within one month of the decision date.
2. Submit further evidence: Provide any additional evidence that supports your claim.

For more information on disputing a decision, visit the Gov.uk Attendance Allowance appeals page.

Additional Support

If you need help with your application, you can get free support from:

• Citizens Advice: Provides assistance with the Attendance Allowance process.
  • Visit citizensadvice.org.uk
• Age UK: Offers guidance and information on applying for Attendance Allowance.
  • Visit ageuk.org.uk

For further information and resources, visit the Attendance Allowance homepage.