DLA Payments from £28.70 to £184.30: If you’re parenting a child in the UK with a disability or long-term health issue, chances are you’ve heard of Disability Living Allowance (DLA). But trying to understand who qualifies, how much you could receive, and when the money arrives can feel like a puzzle with missing pieces. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything about DLA payments—from the current rates (£28.70 to £184.30 per week in 2025) to eligibility rules, how to apply, what benefits you might get alongside it, and the latest policy updates. Whether you’re a parent, carer, or a professional supporting families, this guide is designed to give you practical, accurate, and easy-to-understand insights.
DLA Payments from £28.70 to £184.30
DLA payments—from £28.70 to £184.30 per week—are a vital lifeline for UK families raising children with disabilities. These funds help offset the extra costs of care, mobility, and everyday challenges that come with supporting a child with additional needs. With a well-prepared application, strong supporting evidence, and a good understanding of the process, you can secure the financial support your family deserves.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Disability Living Allowance (DLA) |
| Weekly Payment Range (2025/26) | £28.70 to £184.30 |
| Benefit Components | Care Component & Mobility Component |
| Who Can Apply | Parents/guardians of children under 16 with disabilities or conditions |
| How Often It’s Paid | Every 4 weeks (usually on Tuesdays) |
| How to Apply | Online or phone via GOV.UK |
| Impacts on Other Benefits | Can increase Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Carer’s Allowance |
| Official Website | GOV.UK DLA for Children |
What Is Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit in the UK. It helps cover the extra costs of looking after a child under 16 who needs more support than other children their age due to a disability or health condition.
While adults now typically claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP), DLA remains the go-to benefit for children.
2025 DLA Payment Rates
DLA is made up of two components: Care and Mobility. Your child may qualify for one or both depending on their needs.
Care Component (per week)
- Lowest rate: £28.70
- Middle rate: £72.65
- Highest rate: £108.55
Mobility Component (per week)
- Lower rate: £28.70
- Higher rate: £75.75
If your child qualifies for the highest rates in both categories, the total DLA could be £184.30 per week, or £737.20 every 4 weeks.
These figures are accurate for the 2025/26 financial year and are typically updated annually in line with inflation.
Who Qualifies for DLA?
To qualify for DLA, the child must:
- Be under 16 years of age
- Have lived in Great Britain for at least 2 of the last 3 years (with some exceptions)
- Have had the condition for at least 3 months and expect it to last at least 6 more
- Need more help or supervision than a child of the same age without a disability
There are special considerations for:
- Babies under 6 months
- Children who are terminally ill (fast-track application applies)
Qualifying Conditions
Some common conditions that could qualify a child for DLA include:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Epilepsy
- Cerebral palsy
- Learning disabilities
- Sensory impairments
- Mental health conditions like anxiety or depression
It’s not the diagnosis that matters most—it’s how the condition impacts your child’s daily life.
How to Apply for DLA Payments from £28.70 to £184.30 – Step-by-Step
Applying for DLA might seem intimidating, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Here’s a clear breakdown:
Step 1: Get the Application Pack
- Online at: https://www.gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children/how-to-claim
- Or call the DLA helpline: 0800 121 4600
Step 2: Gather Supporting Evidence
You’ll need:
- Medical reports or diagnosis letters
- Statements from your child’s school, therapist, or care worker
- A diary/log of your child’s needs over several days
Step 3: Fill Out the Form Carefully
Use real-life examples. Don’t downplay the difficulty. It’s okay to be honest about the hard parts of caring for your child.
Step 4: Submit the Form
You can post it to the address provided in the pack.
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Decisions usually take 8–10 weeks, but you may get a response sooner.
When You’ll Get Paid
If your application is approved, DLA is paid:
- Every 4 weeks
- Direct to your bank or building society account
- Earlier if your payment date falls on a bank holiday
You may also receive backdated payments from the date you applied.
Expert Tips for a Successful Application
- Be detailed: Vague answers often result in lower awards
- Don’t compare your child to a sibling—compare to other children the same age
- Include examples of daily routines, nighttime needs, or meltdowns
- Avoid phrases like “he’s okay most of the time” if he struggles regularly
- Get a second opinion: Local advisory services can review your form before submission
What Else Can You Claim Alongside DLA?
Receiving DLA opens the door to other financial supports:
- Carer’s Allowance – If you care 35+ hours per week
- Universal Credit or Child Tax Credit – With disability premium
- Motability Scheme – If your child gets the higher mobility rate
- Blue Badge – For parking closer to facilities
- Disabled Facilities Grant – For home adaptations
Legal Rights and Appeals
If your application is denied or you’re unhappy with the rate awarded, you can appeal.
Steps to Appeal:
- Request a Mandatory Reconsideration within 1 month
- If rejected again, submit an appeal to the Social Security and Child Support Tribunal
- Attend a tribunal hearing and present your case
Know your rights: The Equality Act 2010 protects disabled children from discrimination in education, healthcare, and public services.
Glossary
- Non-means-tested – You can qualify regardless of income or savings
- Mobility Component – Helps with travel or movement difficulties
- Care Component – Helps with daily living and supervision needs
- Backdated Payment – A lump sum for the time between application and approval
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FAQs
Can I claim DLA if I work full-time?
Yes. Your income or job status doesn’t affect DLA. It’s based on your child’s needs.
Will it affect my taxes?
No. DLA is tax-free.
Can both parents claim for the same child?
No. Only one claim can be made per child.
How often is DLA reviewed?
It depends. Awards can be short-term (1-2 years) or longer, depending on the child’s condition.
Does my child need a formal diagnosis?
Not necessarily. You just need to show evidence of extra care or supervision.
