Disability Living Allowance is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit in England and Wales that assists families with the extra costs of looking after a child who has mobility problems, or who requires more looking after than a child of the same age who has no disability.
Who is eligible?
Your child may be eligible for DLA if:
- they are under the age of 16
- they need additional care or have walking difficulties due to a disability or ill-health
- they have had these difficulties for at least three months and expect them to last for more than six months (unless they are terminally ill)
- they meet UK residence and presence tests
You can make a claim even if you don’t have a formal diagnosis. If the child has a life-limiting illness or is nearing the end of life, you might be able to get DLA more quickly and at a higher rate.
Children who are over 16 must apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Components of DLA
The DLA has two parts, and your child may qualify for one or both.
- Care component – this is for children needing extra help with supervision or personal care and can normally be claimed from the age of three months. It has three rates of payment
- Mobility component – this is for children who need help with their mobility or guidance outdoors. It has two rates of payment
How do I claim?
- You can download and print a claim form from the gov.uk website: https://www.gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children
- Call the DLA helpline on 0800 121 4600 and ask for a form to be sent to your address
The claim will begin from the date your form is received – or the date you called, if the form is returned within six weeks.
You will need to show proof of your claim and have the necessary documents. You will also need to provide details of professionals with whom you have contact because of your child’s condition, such as the GP or a social worker.
Getting DLA for your children may also make you eligible for other benefits, such as the disabled child element in Universal Credit or a Blue Badge.
