Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free benefit for children under 16 who have a health condition or disability that means they need extra looking after or have difficulty getting around. It is not means-tested — your household income and savings do not affect eligibility. DLA is gradually being replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for people aged 16 and over, but children continue to receive DLA.

DLA has two components — care and mobility. The care component has three rates: lowest (up to £28.70/week) for help during some of the day or night, middle (up to £72.65/week) for frequent help or constant supervision during the day, or regular help at night, and highest (up to £108.55/week) for help or supervision both during the day and at night. The mobility component has two rates: lower (up to £28.70/week) for children who can walk but need guidance or supervision outdoors, and higher (up to £75.75/week) for children who cannot walk or find it very difficult.

The claim form (DLA1 Child) asks about how your child's condition affects their daily life, including personal care, communication, eating and drinking, mobility, and any additional supervision they need compared to a child of the same age without a disability. Both physical and mental health conditions can qualify — including autism, ADHD, severe anxiety, diabetes requiring management, epilepsy, and many others.

When your child turns 16, the DWP will invite them to claim PIP instead. Receiving DLA for your child can also unlock additional support including the disability element of Child Tax Credit or Universal Credit, a higher rate of Carer's Allowance for you if you provide care, and access to the Motability Scheme if the higher rate mobility component is awarded.