For someone who might have 12 months or less to live, the usual 6-month wait does not apply, and a doctor or other medical professional fills in a form called SR1.
What the SR1 form is
There is a fast route for someone who might have 12 months or less to live. The usual 6-month wait does not apply, and a doctor or other medical professional fills in a form called SR1. It is separate from the AA1 claim form, but the two are sent in together.
Who fills it in
Under the special rules, a doctor or other medical professional fills in a form called SR1. You do not fill in the SR1 yourself, and there is no need to describe the prognosis in your own words – that is the medical professional's part of the claim.
What changes under the special rules
Under the special rules, the usual 6-month wait does not apply. Under the special rules, Attendance Allowance may be paid more quickly and at the higher rate.
If there's no SR1 yet
Send the claim form anyway – do not wait, or payment could be delayed. The SR1 can follow once it is ready.
Is it paid more quickly?
Under the special rules, Attendance Allowance may be paid more quickly and at the higher rate.
If care needs or health change later
Tell the Attendance Allowance Unit about changes such as care needs getting better or worse, going into hospital or a care home, or going abroad.
What to do next
Ring 0800 731 0122 and ask for the claim form, and mention the special rules. The claim can start from the date of the call, if the form is returned within 6 weeks. DWP sends a text or letter within 3 weeks to say when to expect a decision. You can apply to DWP directly, and Citizens Advice can help at no cost.
Questions people ask
Who fills in the SR1 form?
A doctor or other medical professional who knows about the illness – for example a GP or a hospital consultant. You do not write it yourself. Ask them for it when you ring for the claim form.
Do I need the SR1 before I claim?
No. Send the claim form as soon as you can, even if the SR1 is not ready. The claim can start from the date of the call, if the form is returned within 6 weeks.
Does the SR1 mean the claim is automatically approved?
No. Under the special rules, Attendance Allowance may be paid more quickly and at the higher rate, and the usual 6-month wait does not apply. DWP still decides the claim itself – nothing about an outcome is guaranteed.
Are special rules claims paid more quickly?
They may be. Under the special rules, Attendance Allowance may be paid more quickly and at the higher rate. DWP sends a text or letter within 3 weeks to say when to expect a decision. If you are worried about the wait, ring 0800 731 0122 and ask for an update.
Sources
Last checked 30 September 2026 against the sources below.