Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance Address

June 6, 2025

7 minute read

Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance Address

Table of Contents

Applying for government benefits can often feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating complex forms and unfamiliar processes. For many older individuals or those helping their elderly loved ones, understanding how to claim Attendance Allowance is essential.

This financial support, provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), can make a genuine difference in daily life.

But one question remains common and confusing: Where do you send the completed Attendance Allowance form? That’s where the Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance Address becomes critical.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything needed to successfully apply for Attendance Allowance in 2025, including how to fill out the form, where to send it, and what to expect next.

What is Attendance Allowance and Who Can Claim It?

Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit provided by the UK government to people over State Pension age who need help with personal care due to a physical or mental disability.

It is not tied to income or savings, making it available even to those who have other financial resources.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Attendance Allowance in 2025, a person must:

Be of State Pension age
Have a disability or health condition that requires supervision or help with personal care
Have needed support for at least six months, unless they are terminally ill

Exclusions and Notes

Those already receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA) may not be eligible unless their current award ends.

Individuals living in Scotland are no longer eligible for Attendance Allowance but must apply for the Pension Age Disability Payment instead.

The allowance is typically awarded at two rates, depending on the level of help required, either the lower or higher rate. There is no mobility component like in other disability benefits, and no requirement for proof of income.

Understanding the criteria clearly helps in determining eligibility and setting realistic expectations before starting the claim process.

How to Claim Attendance Allowance – Online or By Post?

Applying for Attendance Allowance has been made more accessible in recent years. Depending on your circumstances, you can choose to apply online or by post. However, the method you choose affects when your claim officially starts, which can influence your payments.

Applying Online

You can apply online through the official government service. This method is convenient but comes with some restrictions.

You cannot apply online if:

You are an appointee for someone else
You hold power of attorney for the person applying

The online application guides you step by step and ensures forms are filled correctly. It’s the fastest way to get started, and the date you complete and submit your online application becomes your official claim date.

Applying by Post

If online submission isn’t possible, you can apply by post.

You can either:

Download and print the Attendance Allowance claim form
Contact the Attendance Allowance helpline to request a printed form by post

The printed form includes detailed notes to help you fill it in correctly. Posting the form might take longer, but it is necessary for many applicants who require assistance or have complex health needs.

Knowing which method suits your circumstances can help you choose the fastest and easiest route to starting your claim.

Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance Address – Where to Send Your Form?

Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance Address

One of the most asked questions is where exactly to send the completed Attendance Allowance form. The DWP has simplified the process by offering a Freepost address, meaning you don’t need to pay for postage or use a postcode.

Official Address

To submit the form, send it to:

Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance

That’s all that needs to be written on the envelope. You do not need to include a postcode or even use a stamp. Make sure not to write anything else on the envelope.

Envelope Guidelines

The DWP’s postal system is designed to detect the Freepost name, and additional information can interfere with delivery. If you’re using a window envelope, ensure the address shows clearly through it. The form includes a notes sheet with mailing instructions, which you should read carefully.

Submitting your form correctly is crucial to avoid delays. Always double-check the envelope before sending it off.

What Information Do You Need to Apply for Attendance Allowance?

Filling out the form accurately is essential for a smooth claim. Having the right information ready before you begin can save time and prevent mistakes that could lead to delays or even rejection.

Key Information Required

You will need:

Your National Insurance number
Your full home address and contact information
A clear description of your health condition or disability
Details of how the condition affects your daily activities
Information about your GP surgery or medical provider
Details of any recent hospital stays, care home, or hospice

Supporting Information

Although not required, it’s helpful to have medical records, prescription details, or reports from caregivers or health professionals to support your claim.

Accurate and complete information ensures that the DWP can make a fair assessment based on your circumstances.

What If You Live in Scotland or Northern Ireland?

The application process differs depending on where you live in the UK, particularly in Scotland and Northern Ireland. These regions have separate procedures due to devolved powers and distinct welfare systems.

If You Live in Scotland

In Scotland, Attendance Allowance has been replaced by the Pension Age Disability Payment under Social Security Scotland. The criteria are broadly similar, but the application process and managing body are different.

Applicants in Scotland must visit the Social Security Scotland website to apply for this benefit, and they cannot use the Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance address.

If You Live in Northern Ireland

The rules are generally the same as in England and Wales, but applications are processed by the Department for Communities. A different address and contact system apply, so it’s essential to use the correct channels for your region.

Understanding these regional differences ensures your form goes to the correct office and that your application is valid for your location.

How Does the Attendance Allowance Claim Process Work?

The claim process begins once the DWP receives your completed form. From this point, they assess your eligibility based on the details you provide, and possibly additional medical information.

Step-by-Step Process

Form Submission

Your claim begins the day DWP receives your completed form, or the day you call the helpline (if the form is returned within six weeks).

Assessment

The form is reviewed. If needed, the DWP may contact your GP or ask you for more details.

Notification

You will receive a letter or text within three weeks of submission, letting you know when a decision is expected.

Decision Letter

The final decision will be sent by post, explaining whether you were awarded Attendance Allowance, at what rate, and from what date.

This process usually takes several weeks, but having detailed and accurate information helps reduce delays.

What to Expect After You Apply?

Once your application is submitted, the waiting begins. Many applicants feel uncertain during this period, but understanding what happens next can ease concerns.

After Submission

Within three weeks, the DWP will confirm they have received your form
If further information is needed, they will contact you or your healthcare provider
A decision is generally made within eight to ten weeks, althoughthis can vary

Medical Assessment

In some cases, a health professional may contact you for a more detailed evaluation. This does not always happen, especially if the information provided is clear and sufficient.

Being patient during this period is important, but if you haven’t heard back after 10 weeks, contacting the helpline is advised.

When Will You Receive Your Attendance Allowance Payment?

Payment times depend on the method of application and the outcome of the decision. The DWP outlines different start dates for claims depending on how the form was obtained and submitted.

Claim Start Dates

Application Method	Claim Start Date
Online Application	Date the claim is submitted
Printed Form (Posted)	Date DWP receives the form
Helpline Request (Phone)	Date of call (if returned within 6 weeks)

Payment Timeline

Once approved, payments are made directly into your bank account every four weeks. The decision letter will confirm the amount, rate, and the exact date when payments will begin.

Understanding the timeline ensures you know when to expect financial support, helping you plan accordingly.

How to Challenge a Decision on Your Claim?

If you receive a decision you disagree with, you can formally request the DWP to look at the claim again. This process is called a mandatory reconsideration and must be initiated before any appeal can be made.

Steps to Challenge a Decision

Request a reconsideration within one month of the decision date
Provide reasons why you believe the decision was wrong
Submit any additional supporting information

The DWP will review your case and send a revised decision. If the outcome is still unsatisfactory, you can then appeal to a tribunal.

Being proactive and prepared with clear evidence can improve the chances of a successful reconsideration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Freepost DWP Attendance Allowance address is simple, but applicants often make small mistakes that lead to delays.

Common Errors

Incorrect Envelope Addressing: Adding a postcode or writing extra text on the envelope can confuse sorting systems.
Missing Information: Leaving blank sections or skipping pages in the claim form leads to processing delays or rejections.
Not Using the Latest Form: Always use the most recent version of the form to avoid issues.
Late Submission: Waiting too long after requesting the form can affect your claim start date.

Understanding these pitfalls helps you avoid unnecessary setbacks and improves the likelihood of a quick decision.