Does anyone know whether in my renewal application (I am sick to death at having to re-apply every 2 to 3 years)I have been getting DLA for past 6 years continuously now,
I can ask for an "indefinite" award? Needless to say my conditions are chronic and not likely to get better.
Many thanks

Ps: in the past I have had medical at home, and appeal.

Can I include the "submission" written by Disability Alliance professional (in my appeal application) in my present renewal application for DLA, as evidence?
Also how far back can medical "reports" go as evidence?
Can I include my own GP's report to DWP during a previous application? (This was sent to me during the Appeal process).
Can I include previous reports (evidence) sent in previous applications? They are still valid of course!
Many thanks

Hi Clara,

Yes you can ask for an 'indefinite' award, but there is no guarantee that you will be awarded it. Normally after 2-3 time limited awards, the DLA Decision Maker will make an 'indefinite' award if your mobility and/or care needs are the same.

I have MS, and my first two awards for HRM were for 3 years. It was only when I applied for the care component, that I received what was then a 'life award' which was converted to an 'indefinite award' when the legislation changed in 1998.

However, an 'indefinite' award means just that, for an 'indefinite' period i.e.'vague or not clearly defined' Under the Right Payment Programme, even those on indefinite awards can still have their award reviewed.

My advice would be to seek 'face to face' advice from an adviser with good experience of DLA and appeals. Most CAB's have advisers or can pass you to an organisation that can help.

There is nothing to prevent you from submitting evidence from the Disability Alliance
or from anyone else for that matter so long as your needs are the same. If they've worsened, you'd need more up to date evidence.

With DLA it only needs to be established that a need is reasonably required, not medically required, so it can be still granted even if the help isn't actually given.

For example, a person living on their own with care needs can make a successful application because it's 'reasonably' required.

Hope this helps.

Jim
retired WRO & DLA Tribunal Member.