Request Dependency Support (degree and benefits) in your CCAA

What you need to have ready

1. Cl@ve or digital certificate if you want to apply online (better than dealing with papers). Sign up at https://clave.gob.es if you don't have it yet.
2. Recent medical reports that describe real day-to-day limitations (washing, mobility, eating, cognition).
3. Empadronamiento histórico covering at least the 2 previous years. The law requires residence in Spain 5 years (2 immediately prior); for foreigners: legal residence.
4. Time and patience: the legal deadline is 6 months, but many files move slowly. Better to apply now to fix the effective date.

Documentation

1. DNI/NIE of the applicant and the representative, with the documento de representación if you sign for someone else.
2. Certificado de empadronamiento histórico and current empadronamiento (request it at your ayuntamiento; some charge a few cents, others free).
3. Complete medical report from the Servicio de Salud and a list of medications; if you have a recent alta hospitalaria, attach it.
4. Previous resolutions of disability/incapacity (if any).
5. Tarjeta sanitaria and Social Security number.
6. Bank details (IBAN) and authorisation to check data (or declare income if you don't authorise).
7. Libro de familia if a minor, or resolución de tutela/curatela.
8. Municipal social report (your social worker will prepare this; many CCAA add it automatically to the file).

Step by step

1. Appointment at municipal Servicios Sociales. Call or book online at your ayuntamiento. They'll open a social file and explain the regional form.
2. Gather and scan everything (legible PDFs). Don't upload blurry photos: they'll ask for corrections and you'll lose time.
3. Submit the application: online via the REC (choose the consejería de Servicios Sociales of your CCAA) https://rec.redsara.es/registro/action/are/acceso.do or in person at your community's registry.
4. Keep the receipt of registration (number and date). That date sets retroactivity.
5. Wait for the home assessment (baremo). Show how your day-to-day really is. Have the carer present and show assistive devices, barriers, etc.
6. Resolution of degree and the PIA. They'll call you to choose between service (home help, day centre, telecare, residential) or economic benefit if applicable. Sign, give IBAN and done.
7. Check your file in Carpeta Ciudadana for updates and notifications: https://carpetaciudadana.gob.es

Tricks that save time

• Apply now, fix missing small papers later. You lock the effective date; if they request corrections, you have 10 días hábiles.
• Medical report focused on functionality, not just diagnoses. Baremo keywords (washing, dressing, eating, moving, orientation) help.
• Don't assume compatibilities. If you're granted a public residential place, the caregiver benefit disappears. Ask clearly at the PIA.
• If you change home or carer, notify by registro to avoid suspensions.

Common mistakes that can wreck your application

1. Missing the valuation visit. They'll file your case for non-attendance.
2. Asking only for “money” without proof. The caregiver benefit isn't automatic; if it doesn't add up, they'll offer services and you'll miss out on the cash option.
3. Uploading illegible documents. Correction request guaranteed and extra delay.
4. Not reviewing the PIA before signing. Surprises later with copayments and incompatibilities.
5. Forgetting the empadronamiento histórico. Without proving the previous 2 years, they'll stop the process.
6. Moving CCAA without informing. File transfer = weeks of pause.