From Lower To Middle Care DLA

MonkeyGirl

At the moment I get lower care DLA this was awarded to me in 2003. Since then I have got worse and my partner is doing a lot more for me. Is it worth trying to get middle rate? If so how do I go about it? Are they likely to stop my DLA complety rather than review it and either alter it or keep it the same? I really can't afford to lose this benefit.

Thank you

Fran

There is always the risk that your entitlement will be looked at not in your favour if you apply for a higher rate. However, as you say your condition(s) have got worse, then presumably you have doctor's evidence to back this up and from your partner and others so a claim could be successful. Have a word with Citizens Advice bureau or similar benefits advisers and as they deal with DLA claims all the time they'll be able to say whether in their opinion it's worth putting in a claim at this time.

Ted_Hutchinson

Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance self ...
you can check for yourself if you meet the criteria for middle rate of care at this link.
Disability living allowance, attendance allowance , incapacity ... has up to date guides for claiming DLA which members can suscribe for.
Free guides to claiming disability living allowance, attendance has similar guides that are free but not updated.
It may be helpful if you download a guide and prepare your replies to the questions before going to the adviser
Community Legal Service Direct will help you find a Welfare Benefits advice service near you.
It is worth using the checklist at the back of these guides to make sure the doctor you name on the form is up to date with the amount of help you NOW need.

It will also help you to be specific about the amount of care you now need by keeping a DLA/AA evidence diary

Edit: If you haven't got a copy of the claim form relevant to your current award, ask for a copy of your previous claim form when you write to notify them of your change or circumstance. This will make it easier to fill in the new form and if you use the same wording as before, except of course changing those sections where your needs have increased, it will make it harder for the Decision Maker to say that you no longer qualify for the existing award.