Appointeeship

A young person with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) may be given benefits. However, they may be unable to manage this money. An appointee could look after the money instead. This could be a parent/carer or trusted person.

There are important responsibilities if you become an appointee, including:

signing the benefit claim form
telling the benefit office about any changes which affect how much the young person can get
spending the benefit (which is paid directly to you) in the young person's best interests
telling the benefit office if you stop being the appointee (such as if the young person is able to manage their own benefits)

An appointee can be assigned when the young person turns 16. It does not have to be 'for life'.

Various British banknotes arranged together.

Making financial decisions for young people who lack capacity

This guide is for parents and carers. It tells you about about looking after money on behalf of a young person:

from ages 14 to 25
who may lack the mental capacity to make decisions for themselves.

View this guide

How do I know when an appointee is needed?

A young person may need an appointee if they:

have a limited understanding of money or its value
are vulnerable to exploitation (such as giving money to people they believe are their 'friends')
struggle with managing small amounts of change such as bus fares
struggle with budgeting
Come across like a younger child, or have a specific difficulty – such as learning disability, ADHD, Autism.

What happens if I apply to be an appointee?

A person from Department for Work and Pensions will arrange to visit your home. They will decide if an appointee is needed. They will also interview you to make sure you are suitable.

During the interview, you and the interviewer will fill out an appointee application form.

If approved, you will be sent a sheet confirming 'appointeeship'.

How can I apply to become an appointee?

You will need to phone the service that gives the benefit. You can find a list of who to call on become an appointee for someone claiming benefits.

Help with money

Our SEND Local Offer's new home

Making financial decisions for young people who lack capacity