Attendance Allowance time scale

Murphybear

Does anyone know how long it’s taking at the moment to get Attendance Allowance?  I’ve helped a few people apply and they are anxious about it

Thanks

MB

poppy12345

I've heard it can take as longer as around 14 weeks, sometimes longer.

Cressida100

My friend has recently organised this for her mum who is in a privately funded care home. It took almost 4 months. They mistakenly thought her mum was council funded which delayed things a bit. Her mother is completely self-funded. 

Rubyroobs

I help a lot of people with AA forms. they usually receive a decision letter within 8-9 weeks. Some can take over 4 months though.

Murphybear

Thanks all

ader42

What is the best time to apply for Attendance Allowance?

The applicant needs to have needed care for 6 months so should they apply before the 6 months has passed or wait for 6 months and then be prepared to wait 4 months for the application to go through?

Murphybear

You can get Attendance Allowance if you’ve reached State Pension age and the following apply (unless you might have 12 months or less to live):

• you have a physical disability (including sensory disability, for example blindness), a mental disability (including learning difficulties), or both
• your disability is severe enough for you to need help caring for yourself or someone to supervise you, for your own or someone else’s safety
• you have needed that help for at least 6 months

The above is from the .gov website 

I would interpret it as needing the help for 6 months when you apply.  

poppy12345

If you apply before the 6 months and you're awarded payments won't start until that 6 months has been reached.

Easyjet77

Hello,  Apologies, slightly off topic. My latest aa higher award does not stipulate length  of award. Initially, several years ago it stated indefinitely on lower award. Last year upon change to higher award, it stated 1 Yr award. There  isn't any mention of award term on latest letter of award, only note of entitlement. Can anyone shed any light on this omission  or offer thoughts. 
   Sorry for poor grammar etc.

PS applied 23/07. Award letter arrived 16/08