What Happens After You Send Your Attendance Allowance Form?

Once you have completed and sent your Attendance Allowance claim form to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), there are a few important steps to expect while your application is being processed.

Initial Acknowledgement

Within about three weeks of the DWP receiving your form, you should get a letter or text message from them. This communication will confirm they have your claim and usually tell you when to expect a decision on your application.

Decision on Your Claim

The DWP will review the information you provided about your health condition and your need for help with personal care or supervision. This process can take some time depending on the complexity of your case and the volume of applications they are handling.

When a decision has been made, you will receive a letter setting out whether your claim has been successful or not. This letter is important as it explains the outcome and, if you are awarded Attendance Allowance, the rate you will receive.

Start Date of Your Claim

• If you applied online: Your claim will start on the date you submitted your application.
• If you sent a paper form by post: Your claim will start on the date the DWP receives your form.
• If you requested a form by phone: Your claim will start on the date of your call, provided you return the form within six weeks.

Payments

If your claim is successful, the decision letter will explain when you will receive your first payment. Attendance Allowance is paid every four weeks, and payments will continue as long as you remain eligible.

If You Disagree with the Decision

If you believe the decision is incorrect, you can ask the DWP to look at your claim again through a process called mandatory reconsideration. This is the first step before any formal appeal. The decision letter will include information on how to request this.

Additional Points

• Keep a copy of your completed form and any letters you receive from the DWP for your records.
• If you move or your circumstances change, inform the DWP as soon as possible to avoid payment issues.
• If you live in Scotland, Attendance Allowance has been replaced by Pension Age Disability Payment, so claims should be made through the relevant Scottish system.

Official reference: https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance/how-to-claim. Always check the latest official guidance. Related forms: Browse our form category.

Important: This article provides general information. Government rules, forms and procedures can change, and this article may not reflect the latest updates. Check current GOV.UK guidance or the relevant authority before relying on it. ITG & Co. is independent and is not affiliated with a government department.