Are you a parent or guardian of a child with a disability in the UK? If so, you may be eligible for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) — a vital financial support that helps with the extra costs of raising a child with additional care or mobility needs. In February 2025, DLA payments range from £28.70 to £184.30 per week, depending on your child’s situation.
Let’s break down everything you need to know: from payment dates, rates, and eligibility, to what happens when your child turns 16.
What is Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?
Disability Living Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit offered by the UK government for children under 16 who require extra care or have mobility issues due to a physical or mental disability. While Personal Independence Payment (PIP) has replaced DLA for adults, DLA continues to support children under 16.
DLA Payment Dates – February 2025
DLA is usually paid every four weeks, always on a Tuesday. Here are the expected payment dates for February 2025:
| Month | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| February 2025 | Tuesday, 4 February 2025 |
| Tuesday, 18 February 2025 |
Note: If a scheduled date falls on a bank holiday, payments may be made earlier.
DLA Weekly Payment Rates in February 2025
Depending on the child’s needs, families may receive one or both of the care and mobility components.
Care Component Rates
| Rate Type | Weekly Amount | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest | £28.70 | Needs help for part of the day |
| Middle | £72.65 | Needs help during the day or night |
| Highest | £108.55 | Needs help during both day and night |
Mobility Component Rates
| Rate Type | Weekly Amount | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Lower | £28.70 | Needs guidance when walking outdoors |
| Higher | £75.75 | Cannot walk or has severe difficulty walking |
Who Can Get Disability Living Allowance?
To qualify for DLA, your child must meet certain conditions.
Eligibility Checklist
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be under 16 years old |
| Residency | Must live in the UK, Ireland, Isle of Man, or Channel Islands |
| Health Condition | Must need more help than a typical child of the same age |
| Mobility Needs | Must struggle with walking or need supervision outdoors |
| Duration | Condition must last at least 3 months and expected to continue for 6 more |
Children turning 16 will be reassessed for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
How to Apply for DLA
Applying for DLA is straightforward but requires details about your child’s needs.
Steps to Apply
- Download the DLA claim form from the official GOV.UK website.
- Fill out the form with complete information about your child’s condition and the care they need.
- Post the form to the address provided on the GOV.UK site.
You can also request a form by calling the Disability Living Allowance helpline.
What Happens When Your Child Turns 16?
When your child reaches 16, DLA ends, and they will need to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). You’ll receive a letter before their 16th birthday to guide you through the PIP application process. It’s essential to apply for PIP to avoid any gap in financial support.
FAQs
How long does it take to receive a decision after applying?
It typically takes around 8–12 weeks, depending on how quickly evidence is received.
Can I appeal a DLA decision if I disagree with it?
Yes, you can request a mandatory reconsideration and later appeal if needed.
Will my payments stop automatically when my child turns 16?
Yes, DLA stops at age 16, but you’ll be advised to apply for PIP beforehand.
What if my child’s condition improves?
You must report any changes to the DLA office. If their needs reduce, your payment could be adjusted.
Can my child receive both the care and mobility components of DLA?
Yes, if your child meets the criteria for both, they can receive payments for both components.