The Attendance Allowance helpline serves as the primary point of contact for claimants seeking information about claims, forms, and changes to existing awards. The main DWP telephone number is 0800 731 0122, available to callers free of charge from both landlines and mobile phones.
What is the Attendance Allowance Helpline Number and Opening Hours?
Main Helpline
Opening Hours
Relay UK
Textphone
- The main helpline handles both new claims and changes to existing awards
- Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones
- Relay UK allows callers who are deaf or speech-impaired to communicate via text
- British Sign Language users can access the video relay service through GOV.UK
- Textphone users should dial 0800 731 0317 for equivalent service
- Alternative formats including large print, Braille, and audio CD are available on request
- Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm, according to current DWP guidance
| Contact Type | Number/Details |
|---|---|
| Main Helpline | 0800 731 0122 |
| Changes Reporting | Same helpline: 0800 731 0122 |
| Textphone | 0800 731 0317 |
| Relay UK | 18001 then 0800 731 0122 |
| BSL Video Relay | Via GOV.UK website |
| Opening Hours | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
| Form Requests | Call helpline or use online portal |
Attendance Allowance Change of Circumstances Phone Number
Claimants must report any changes in their circumstances to the Department for Work and Pensions promptly. The same helpline number used for initial claims handles these updates.
When to Contact the Helpline
You should notify DWP immediately if your situation changes in any of the following ways:
- Your health condition or disability improves or worsens
- The level of care you require changes, including daytime or nighttime needs
- You are admitted to hospital or move into a care home
- You receive a prison sentence
- Your personal details change, such as name, address, or bank information
- Your doctor’s details change
- You decide you no longer wish to receive the benefit
Failing to report changes promptly can result in overpayments or underpayments. The DWP may later seek recovery of any overpaid amounts, making it essential to keep your information current.
How to Get the Attendance Allowance Form
Online Application Process
You can submit an Attendance Allowance claim through the official online portal at apply-for-attendance-allowance.dwp.gov.uk. The digital system uses the AA1 claim form and processes applications for residents of England, Scotland, and Wales. Northern Ireland has separate arrangements.
When applying online, your claim begins on the date you submit the application. This differs from postal claims, where the start date depends on when DWP receives your form.
Requesting a Paper Form by Phone
If you prefer to claim by post, call the helpline on 0800 731 0122 to request an AA1 form. The form can be sent in alternative formats including large print, Braille, or audio CD for those with accessibility needs.
If you call the helpline to request a form, the form will be stamped with your call date. Provided you return the completed form within six weeks, your claim can be backdated to the date of your original call.
Posting Your Claim Form
Completed forms should be sent to Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance. No stamp or postcode is required—simply write the address exactly as shown on the envelope. Your claim starts from the date DWP receives the form if you downloaded it rather than requesting a stamped version.
The AA1 claim form is available for download from GOV.UK. You can complete it on screen before printing or fill it out by hand after printing.
Proof of Attendance Allowance and Common Pitfalls
Evidence Requirements
While not compulsory, supporting documentation strengthens your claim. Useful evidence includes letters from your GP, diagnosis documentation, care plans, and lists of current prescriptions. These materials help demonstrate how your condition affects your daily living and mobility needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Downloading instead of phoning: A downloaded form starts your claim from the date DWP receives it. Calling first secures a stamped form with your call date, allowing backdating if returned within six weeks.
- Incomplete descriptions: Clearly explain how your condition affects washing, dressing, eating, and mobility. Include specific examples of tasks you cannot perform alone or require supervision for.
- Ignoring night-time needs: If you require care during the night, state this explicitly. Both daytime and nighttime requirements are considered.
- Wrong benefit: Attendance Allowance is available only to those aged 65 or over (born on or before 5 April 1953). Those under this age may need to apply for Personal Independence Payment instead.
Ensure you meet the age requirement before applying. People born after 5 April 1953 should consider Personal Independence Payment as an alternative to Attendance Allowance.
How to Submit Your Attendance Allowance Claim
- Call the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122 to request a stamped AA1 form, or access the online portal
- Complete the form with your National Insurance number, contact details, information about your disability or health condition, and your GP’s details
- Include information about any hospital, care home, or hospice stay if applicable
- Attach supporting evidence such as GP letters, diagnosis documents, or care plans
- Return the form to Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance, or submit online through the official portal
- Expect a decision letter within approximately six weeks
What Information Is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear
Confirmed Information
- Main helpline: 0800 731 0122
- Textphone: 0800 731 0317
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
- Relay UK number: 18001 then 0800 731 0122
- No email address available for claims
- Online portal exists at apply-for-attendance-allowance.dwp.gov.uk
- Decision typically arrives within six weeks
Areas Requiring Confirmation
- Whether Saturday opening is available in some regions
- Exact processing times during peak periods
- Specific documentation requirements for complex conditions
- Northern Ireland contact procedures differ and may require separate verification
Attendance Allowance in Context
Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit administered by the Department for Work and Pensions. It provides financial support to individuals aged 65 or over who need help with personal care due to a disability or long-term health condition. The helpline at 0800 731 0122 serves as the central contact point for both new applicants and existing claimants across England, Scotland, and Wales.
The benefit exists alongside other DWP provisions including Carer’s Allowance, Universal Credit, and Personal Independence Payment. Claimants transitioning between benefits or those with caring responsibilities may find it useful to understand how these related payments interact. The DWP 780 Benefits Extra Payment – Facts Claimants Need provides additional context on recent changes to benefit arrangements.
For those exploring complementary support options, Rise and Recline Chairs – Prices, Sales and Elderly Guide offers information on equipment that may assist with mobility and daily living activities.
Sources and Official Guidance
“Contact the helpline to request a claim form. Telephone: 0800 731 0122.”
— GOV.UK, Attendance Allowance: How to Claim
“Calling the Attendance Allowance helpline on 0800 731 0122.”
— Carers UK, Benefits if You Are Disabled, Ill or Injured
Additional guidance comes from organisations including Citizens Advice, Age Cymru, and Independent Age, all of which offer practical advice on completing the AA1 form and understanding eligibility criteria.
Next Steps for Claimants
If you believe you may be eligible for Attendance Allowance, the first step is to contact the helpline on 0800 731 0122 during opening hours. Staff can explain whether you meet the basic requirements and guide you through the process of requesting a claim form. Alternatively, you can begin your application immediately through the official online portal or download the AA1 form from GOV.UK to review the information you will need to provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an email address for Attendance Allowance?
No email address is available for submitting Attendance Allowance claims or queries. All contact must be made by telephone using the helpline numbers provided or through the online portal.
What are the contact numbers for related DWP benefits?
Related benefits have separate contact arrangements. Universal Credit claimants should use the dedicated Universal Credit helpline, while Carer’s Allowance has its own contact centre. Each benefit’s GOV.UK page lists the appropriate telephone numbers.
Is proof required when claiming Attendance Allowance?
Supporting documents are not compulsory but can strengthen your application. GP letters, diagnosis documents, care plans, and prescription lists help demonstrate your care needs and may speed up the assessment process.
Can I claim Attendance Allowance if I live in Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland has separate arrangements for Attendance Allowance. The contact procedures and some eligibility details may differ from those in England, Scotland, and Wales.
How long does it take to receive a decision?
The DWP typically issues a decision within approximately six weeks of receiving a completed claim. Processing times may vary depending on the complexity of your circumstances and the volume of applications being handled.
What happens if I need help completing the form?
The helpline staff can provide guidance on completing the form. Additionally, organisations such as Citizens Advice, Age UK, and local advice centres offer free assistance with benefit claims and can help you understand what information to include.
Can I claim if I already receive other benefits?
Attendance Allowance can be claimed alongside other benefits in most cases. It does not affect means-tested benefits in the same way some other payments do, but you should inform all relevant departments of any changes to your circumstances.
Related stories
Oscar Friel covers culture, lifestyle, society and long-form features across the UK.