What DLA Is
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a tax-free benefit for children under 16 who have additional care or mobility needs because of a physical or mental condition.
It is paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and is not means-tested. It does not matter how much you earn, how much you have in savings, or whether you work.
DLA is based on what your child needs help with, not on their diagnosis. Two children with the same condition can receive different rates depending on how their daily life is affected.
The Two Components
DLA has two parts. Your child can receive one or both.
Care Component
For children who need more looking after than a child of the same age without a disability. This includes help with washing, dressing, eating, or supervision to keep them safe. Paid at three rates: lower, middle, or higher.
Mobility Component
For children aged 3 or over who have difficulty walking or need someone with them when walking outdoors. Paid at two rates: lower or higher. The higher rate is for children who are unable or virtually unable to walk.
Who Can Claim
To claim DLA for a child, the following must apply:
- 1.The child is under 16
- 2.They have a physical or mental condition that means they need substantially more care or supervision than a child of the same age without a disability
- 3.They have needed that extra help for at least 3 months
- 4.They are expected to need it for at least 6 more months
- 5.They are in Great Britain (England, Scotland, or Wales)
You do not need a formal diagnosis to claim. The form asks about what your child needs help with day to day, not what their condition is called.
How to Apply
- 1.Call 0800 121 4600 to request a claim form (or download from GOV.UK)
- 2.Fill in the form describing your child's daily care and mobility needs
- 3.Include any supporting evidence (reports, letters from professionals)
- 4.Return the form by post
- 5.The DWP makes a decision (typically within 40 working days)
The date of your phone call is treated as the date of claim. If the claim is successful, payment is backdated to that date.
DLA Rates (2025/26)
| Component | Rate | Weekly amount |
|---|---|---|
| Care | Lower | £28.70 |
| Care | Middle | £72.65 |
| Care | Higher | £108.55 |
| Mobility | Lower | £28.70 |
| Mobility | Higher | £75.75 |
Rates shown are for the 2025/26 tax year. They are updated each April.
If Your Claim Is Refused
If the DWP decides your child does not qualify, or awards a lower rate than expected, you can ask for a mandatory reconsideration within one calendar month of the decision letter.
A different DWP decision-maker will review the claim. If you are still not satisfied after mandatory reconsideration, you can appeal to a tribunal.
Common Questions
What does DLA stand for?
DLA stands for Disability Living Allowance. It is a tax-free benefit paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help with the extra costs of caring for a disabled child under 16.
Who can claim DLA for a child?
A parent, carer, or guardian can claim DLA for a child under 16 who has difficulty walking, needs more care than a child of the same age without a disability, or has been diagnosed with a condition that affects their daily life. The child must have needed extra help for at least 3 months and be expected to need it for at least 6 more months.
How much is DLA worth?
DLA has two components. The care component is paid at three rates: lower (£28.70/week), middle (£72.65/week), or higher (£108.55/week). The mobility component is paid at two rates: lower (£28.70/week) or higher (£75.75/week). Rates shown are for the 2025/26 tax year.
Is DLA means-tested?
No. DLA is not means-tested. It is not based on income, savings, or whether anyone in the household works. It is based solely on the care and mobility needs of the child.
How do I apply for DLA?
You apply by calling the DWP on 0800 121 4600 to request a DLA claim form. The form is posted to you. You fill it in describing your child's daily care and mobility needs, then return it by post. The DWP makes a decision based on what you write.
What happens if DLA is refused?
If your claim is refused, you can ask for a mandatory reconsideration within one month of the decision. This means a different DWP decision-maker reviews the claim. If it is refused again, you can appeal to a tribunal.
Aubis helps you build your child's DLA claim, step by step.
See the DLA App