Important Note
When a child claiming DLA turns 16, they will need to claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead. We can help manage this transition smoothly.
UK Benefit Guide
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
Tax-free support of up to £172.75 per week for children under 16 with disabilities or care needs
- Specialists in DLA for children
- Expert application support
- Compassionate family support
- Care and mobility guidance
Under 16 Age Limit
2 Parts Care & Mobility
5 Rates Multiple Levels
£8,983 Max Annual Value
What Is Disability Living Allowance for Children?
DLA is a tax-free benefit for children under 16 who have care needs or mobility difficulties due to a physical or mental health condition or disability.
Like other disability benefits, it is not means-tested - your family's income and savings do not affect eligibility. The money can be used however you choose to help with the extra costs of caring for a disabled child.
Two Components: Care & Mobility
Care Component
For children who need help with personal care, supervision, or watching over:
- Help with bodily functions such as washing, dressing, and eating
- Continual supervision to avoid danger
- Prolonged or repeated attention at night
- Someone to watch over them to avoid danger
Mobility Component
For children aged 3+ who have difficulty walking or need guidance outdoors:
- Unable or virtually unable to walk
- Severe mental impairment with behavioral problems
- Needs guidance or supervision outdoors
- Can walk but requires substantially more effort than others
* Mobility component only available from age 3
Maximum Weekly Payment
£172.75Highest Care + Higher Mobility (ages 3-15)
= £8,983 per year
Eligibility Criteria
Basic Requirements
- Child must be under 16
- Difficulties must have lasted 3 months or be expected to last
- Difficulties expected to last at least 6 months
- Habitually resident in UK or covered by EU rules
- For Mobility: child must be aged 3+
Common Qualifying Conditions
- Autism and developmental disorders
- Cerebral palsy and physical disabilities
- Learning disabilities and ADHD
- Epilepsy and seizure disorders
- Chronic health conditions such as diabetes and asthma
- Visual or hearing impairments
The "Extra Care" Test
The key question is whether your child needs substantially more help or supervision than a child of the same age without disabilities. You must show that their needs go beyond normal parenting.
How We Support Your DLA Claim
01
Eligibility Assessment
We assess both care and mobility needs to determine which components and rates your child may qualify for.
02
Evidence Gathering
We help coordinate with schools, doctors, therapists, and specialists to build a complete picture of your child's needs.
03
Form Completion Guidance
The DLA form for children is complex. We help you describe your child's difficulties accurately and comprehensively.
04
Maximizing Awards
We ensure you claim for all eligible components at the appropriate rates - many families receive less than they are entitled to.
05
Reviews and Renewals
DLA awards are often time-limited. We help manage renewals and report changes in circumstances.
06
Transition to PIP at 16
When your child turns 16, we manage the transition from DLA to PIP smoothly to avoid gaps in payment.
Special Considerations for Expat Families
British families living abroad face unique challenges when claiming DLA for their children:
Understanding which EU regulations apply to your situation
Providing medical evidence from overseas healthcare providers
Navigating presence and residence tests
Coordinating with UK-based specialists for assessments
Managing claims while living in different time zones
Translating foreign medical documents appropriately
Get Support With Your Child's DLA Claim
Expert guidance to ensure your child receives the support they're entitled to