Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a UK government benefit designed to help families cover the additional costs of caring for a child under 16 with a long-term disability or health condition.
Although DLA has been replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for adults, it remains a crucial source of financial support for children and their caregivers.
In February 2025, DLA payments will range from £28.70 to £184.30 per week, depending on the level of care and mobility support required. Let’s break down the eligibility criteria, payment rates, and application process.
Disability Living Allowance Up To £184.30
DLA is intended for children who require extra care or supervision due to a physical or mental disability. It helps parents or guardians manage the additional financial burden of supporting a child with special needs.
The benefit is divided into two main components: the care component and the mobility component, each with different payment rates based on the level of assistance required.
Payments
DLA payments are made every four weeks, typically on a Tuesday. For February 2025, the scheduled payment dates are:
- Tuesday, 4 February 2025
- Tuesday, 18 February 2025
If a scheduled payment date falls on a bank holiday, the payment may be processed earlier. Payments are directly deposited into the parent or guardian’s bank account.
Rates
DLA consists of two components: care and mobility. Each component has different levels of financial support based on the severity of the child’s condition.
| Component | Weekly Rate (2025) | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Care (Lowest) | £28.70 | Requires help for part of the day |
| Care (Middle) | £72.65 | Requires frequent help during the day or night |
| Care (Highest) | £108.55 | Requires constant care both day and night |
| Mobility (Lower) | £28.70 | Needs extra guidance outdoors |
| Mobility (Higher) | £75.75 | Has severe walking difficulties |
The level of financial support a child qualifies for depends on their care and mobility needs as assessed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Eligibility
To qualify for DLA, the child must meet specific criteria.
Age
- The child must be under 16 years old.
- Once they turn 16, they will need to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead.
Residency
- The child must live in the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man, or the Channel Islands.
- They must not be under immigration control.
Disability Requirements
The child must:
- Need more care, attention, or supervision than a child of the same age without a disability.
- Have walking difficulties due to their condition (for mobility component eligibility).
Duration of Condition
- The disability must have lasted at least three months.
- It must be expected to last for at least six more months.
Application
If your child meets the eligibility requirements, you can apply for DLA by following these steps:
- Obtain the Application Form – Download it from Gov.uk, call the Disability Benefit Helpline at 0800 121 4600, or request a form by post.
- Complete the Form – Provide details about your child’s condition, care needs, and mobility issues. Attach any supporting medical documents or reports.
- Submit the Application – Send the completed form to the Disability Benefit Centre at the address provided in the form.
Once the application is approved, payments will begin from the date of submission.
DLA provides essential financial support to families caring for children with disabilities. Understanding the eligibility criteria, payment rates, and application process ensures that those who qualify receive the help they need.
If you think your child is eligible, applying as soon as possible can ensure they get the right level of support without unnecessary delays.
